OBJECTIVETo verify the clinical efficacy of acupuncture for mild cognitive impairment of stroke at subacute stage.

METHODSOne hundred patients at subacute stage of cerebral infarction or cerebral hemorrhage with scores of Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) less than 26 were randomly divided into an observation group and a control group,50 cases in each one. Based on the regulation of blood pressure and blood sugar and anticoagulation,cognitive rehabilitation training was adopted in the control group. On the basis of treatment in the control group,acupuncture was applied in the observation group. The acupoints were Baihui(GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), Shenting (GV 24), Yintang(GV 29), Hegu (LI 4) and Taichong(LR 3). Sishencong(EX-HN 1), Shenting (GV 24) and Yintang (GV 29) were connected to electroacupuncture apparatus. The treatment was given once a day,5 times a week, and 8-week treatment was acquired in the two groups. In the 4th week and the 8th week,limbs motor function, daily life ability and cognitive function were evaluated by Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) scale,Bathel index and MoCA scale.

RESULTSIn 4 weeks and 8 weeks, the scores of FMA, Bathel index and MoCA in the two groups were improved compared with those before treatment (all P < 0.05). After 8-week treatment, the scores of Bathel index and MoCA in the observation group were better than those in the control group (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONBased on the cognitive rehabilitation training and the conventional treatment, acupuncture can improve the cognitive function and daily life ability of stroke patients at subacute stage with mild cognitive impairment.