Revista Internacional de Acupuntura最新文献

Introduction

Methodology

Results

Conclusion

Heart rate variability (HRV) indirectly reflects the activity of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) on cardiac function, which is modified by both internal and external stimuli, reflecting the body's self-regulatory capacity. In this article we describe some general aspects of HRV and its implications for health and disease. Likewise, we show experimental evidence emphasizing that acupuncture under certain conditions increases vagal tone, to cope with the wear and tear generated by stressors, and in other conditions activates the sympathetic response to mobilize resources. We expose HRV as a tool to evaluate the effects of acupuncture on the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, and its implications in other body systems. We propose that a mechanism of action of acupuncture to modulate the digestive, immune, cardiovascular, respiratory, and gynecological systems, including conditions such as stress, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and metabolism, corresponds to the activity it exerts on the sympathetic branch and parasympathetic of the ANS, which can be evidenced by HRV.

The main objectives of the orthodontic treatment are to generate correct occlusion and adequate dental alignment, which is reflected in the health of the orofacial tissues. During this treatment, dental movements are required to correct bite arches. These movements result from remodeling the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone in response to a mechanical load that generates local inflammation. This local inflammation can generate side effects that promote treatment abandonment if not adequately modulated. On the other hand, acupuncture through psychoneuroimmunological control mechanisms modulates inflammatory responses. Therefore, this review aims to analyze the acupuncture mechanisms of modulation of the immune system, give an overview of the possible applications of this medical specialty as a complement to orthodontic treatment to improve its efficiency, and open new questions that promote the generation of new lines of research.

Auriculotherapy and auricular acupuncture are techniques that involve stimulating specific points on the ear to treat a variety of physical and psychological conditions. This technique is based on the principle that the ear is a microsystem of the body, with each point corresponding to a specific organ or system. The history of conditions being treated through the auricle can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of its use found in Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures. However, it was not until the 20th century that modern auriculotherapy was developed. Since then, auriculotherapy has been the subject of extensive research, and there is now a growing body of evidence to support its effectiveness. In this article, we discuss the historical context, possible mechanisms, clinical implications for treatment and diagnosis, and conclude by presenting a simple observation case.

The use of the auricle reflex system for treatment and diagnosis seems to be a promising complementary method with potential value for healthcare providers. It may provide a wider understanding of a patient's health and guide the selection of appropriate treatment options. It may also provide a cost-effective preventive diagnosis assessment tool that can be employed in areas without access to top-of-the-line healthcare technologies. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of the auricle microsystem and to further validate its effectiveness.

In this article, a selective and critical study of the contralateral acupuncture technique was conducted. Integrating essential information from a perspective of scientific evidence, which proposes an understanding of the neurophysiological mechanism of its action. Contralateral acupuncture proposes to puncture the side opposite to the diseased side of the patient.

In our review of the literature, the articles showed that the technique is able to stimulate brain regions involved in the pain process, such as the cingulate cortex and the cerebellum. Decrease the pattern of pain and provide an increase in the range of motion of the affected region.

In addition, an important observation is that there are no scientific studies that relate this technique to orofacial pain or to Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), except for one dissertation work.

As a conclusion, it was possible to observe that this therapeutic tool has the capacity to act at a distance from the affected area, it is possible to puncture the healthy side of the individual and obtain therapeutic results on the affected side. Avoiding the spread of a possible infection and reassuring the patient that they do not have to endure being punctured in an already painful region. A useful technique that requires more dissemination and research.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease of the airways that presents clinical manifestations such as wheezing, respiratory distress, chest tightness and cough, while an asthmatic crisis is the variable limitation of expiratory airflow.

This pathology is increasing in the world and represents a global health problem with few studies on auriculotherapy. The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of deaths are from this cause. We present the case of a 33-year-old woman, with asthma detected at 6 years of age of six years, receiving basic treatment; oral salbutamol, aerosol 100–200 μg dose more than 8 times a day, presenting asthmatic attacks at least twice a month. After a treatment of auriculotherapy in the Shenmen, Lung, Bronchi, Asthma and Diaphragm points with 10 sessions, asthmatic symptoms and recurrence of asthmatic crises improved.

Background

Understanding the effects of natural remedies and alternative therapies on animal behavior is crucial for both scientific research and potential therapeutic applications. Aloe vera, a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties, has been widely studied for its potential benefits in various health conditions. Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves the stimulation of specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. By assessing the behavioral changes in rats exposed to Aloe vera and acupuncture, this study aims to shed light on the potential benefits and mechanisms underlying these interventions.

Aim of the study

This study aims to investigate the impact of Aloe vera and acupuncture on rat behavior using an experimental approach. The findings from this research may contribute to our understanding of alternative treatments and their potential applications in both human and veterinary medicine.

Method

In this experiment, rats were divided into eight groups: one control and seven treatment groups. The rats received drugs, Aloe vera extract, or acupuncture once daily orally for 2 weeks. Their behavior was evaluated using the Open Field Test and The Forced Swim Test on days 1, 7, and 14. Blood samples were collected from the rats' hearts and analyzed to assess kidney and liver function.

Result

The results of the study showed that Aloe Vera extract, particularly at a dose of 150 mg/kg, exhibited significant antidepressant effects. The combination of Aloe Vera extract, fluoxetine, and acupuncture therapy yielded the highest antidepressant effects compared to other groups. Additionally, the Aloe Vera extract showed positive effects on kidney and liver function.

Conclusion

the study suggests that Aloe Vera extract may have potential as an alternative or complementary treatment for depression. Its antidepressant effects were demonstrated, particularly at a dose of 150 mg/kg, and were further enhanced when combined with fluoxetine and acupuncture therapy. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and understand the mechanisms behind these effects.

Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which men have difficulty in obtaining or maintaining a satisfactory penile erection, affecting their sexual life and quality of life. It is a common condition and its prevalence is increasing due to lifestyle changes and psychosocial factors. There are various approaches to treat erectile dysfunction, however many patients are not satisfied with conventional treatments and seek alternatives. Acupuncture is a technique that involves the insertion of needles into specific points of the body to promote the regulation of several systems and improve well-being. Regarding erectile dysfunction, acupuncture seems to positively influence the regulation of the hypothalamus, hormonal function, and local nervous function. Acupuncture is a promising therapeutic option, especially when combined with conventional therapies and by directly addressing mental health. However, the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture for erectile dysfunction is still limited.