INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT NEEDLE-RETAINING TIME ON THE THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF ACUPUNCTURE IN THE TREATMENT OF ISCHEMIC STROKE

Objective: To explore the relationship between the needle-retaining time and the therapeutic effect of acupuncture in the treatment of ischemic stroke patients. Methods: Based on the level of the severity of the patient's disease and the duration of acupuncture needle-retaining, 245 ischemic stroke inpatients were divided into 20 min, 40 min and 60 min groups according to the stratified random method. Acupoints used were Jianyu (肩髃 LI 15), Quchi (曲池 LI 11), Waiguan (外关 TE 5), Hegu (合谷 LI 4), etc. and stimulated electrically (2 Hz, sparse waves, an endurable strength) for 20 min, 40 min and 60 min respectively by using an electroacupuncture therapeutic apparatus. The treatment was given once daily, with 10 sessions being a therapeutic course. The severity of clinical neurological deficit was scored before and after the treatment. Results: The results showed that acupuncture could improve the neurological deficit severity of ischemic stroke patients. The therapeutic effect of acupuncture in improving myodynamia of the upper limbs and hands, and the total score of 60 min group was the best, followed by 40 min group and 20 min group respectively, indicating that longer duration of acupuncture needle retention has a better therapeutic effect in the treatment of stroke. Conclusion: There is a positive relationship between the needle-retaining time and the curative effect in improving ischemic stroke patients' clinical symptoms and signs by acupuncture.