A functional magnetic resonance study of the effect of acupuncture on the regulation of brain function
10.3760/cma.j.issn.0254-1424.2012.09.009
- VernacularTitle:不同方法针刺足三里对脑功能调节效应的功能性磁共振成像研究
- Author:
Junwu HU
;
Henglian LIU
;
Wei WANG
;
Guangying HUANG
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Acupuncture therapy;
Acupuncture points;
Magnetic resonance imaging
- From:
Chinese Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
2012;34(9):677-680
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Objective To observe the differences in functional areas of the brain in response to two different acupuncture techniques using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).Methods Deqi and non-deqi acupuncture were performed on twenty healthy right-handed volunteers.fMRI was conducted in the process of acupuncture.The experiment adopted a single-chunk design and the procedure contained periods of stimulation and rest.The brain regions stimulated during deqi and non-deqi acupuncture were assessed using xjview software.Results After acupuncture at the Zusanli point (ST36),differences in activity were observed between the deqi and non-deqi groups in the language,sports,perception and limbic systems.Conclusions ①Under deqi conditions,acupuncture at ST36 increases circulation and the activation of brain areas dealing with language,sports,perception and the limbic system.This may be one of the mechanisms by which acupuncture can improve aphasia,coordination and perception.②Under deqi conditions acupuncture at ST36 decreases circulation and deactivates brain areas associated with the limbic system.This may explain acupuncture's analgesia and regulation of autonomic nerve and endocrine function,its amelioration of internal organ functions and regulation of immunologic function.
