Effects of single acupuncture point stimulation on mechanical experimental pain

Introduction: In western countries, acupuncture as therapy for pain, is commonly used in treatment of the chronic pain. However, several studies have pointed out its success in treatment of acute pain. It is shown that acupuncture works through simultaneous activation of several pain control mechanisms in CNS. Acupuncture point LI4 (otherwise known as Hegu), is one of the most studied points in acupuncture treatment of pain. Its stimulation is indicated in almost all painful conditions, and its effectiveness is well proven. Algometry, used for pain assessment, has been widely recognized as reliable and objective method for measuring pressure pain threshold and tolerance. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore whether a single acupuncture treatment shows significant short-term analgesic effect on mechanical stimuli, and to determine the distribution of these effects across the body (whether localized, regional or generalized). Material and Methods: Study group included 14 healthy, pain-free students who have passed clinical examination for any possible painful conditions. Pressure pain detection threshold (PPDT) and pressure pain tolerance threshold (PPTT) were measured on 3 points across the body using algometry, before and after interventions. For intervention, all subjects have received deep needling of LI4 acupuncture point, without needle manipulation, administered for duration of 20 minutes. Results: Statistically significant rise in PPDT and PPTT has been observed in each of 3 measured points, following the needling of LI4 acupuncture point, without needle manipulation. There were no significant differences in mean change of PPDT and PPTT upon comparing changes between points. Conclusion: Even a single manual acupuncture point stimulation, can have significant short-term generalized analgesic effect, which is determined using mechanical stimuli to cause experimental pain.