ABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo observe the effect ofTong Guan Li Qiao(opening orifices) needling method on the swallowing function in patients with post-stroke deglutition disorders.MethodNinety-one patients were randomized into an acupuncture group of 46 cases and a control group of 45 cases. The acupuncture group was intervened byTong Guan Li Qiaoneedling method, while the control group was by rehabilitation training. The Standard Swallowing Assessment (SSA), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Swallowing-related Quality of Life (SWAL-QOL) and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) were adopted for evaluation before and after intervention.ResultAfter intervention, the SSA, MBI, SWAL-QOL, and HAMD scores were significantly improved in the two groups (P<0.05); there were significant differences in comparing the scores between the two groups after intervention (P<0.05), and the improvements in the acupuncture group were more significant than that in the control group (P<0.05).Conclusion Tong Guan Li Qiaoneedling method can produce a more significant efficacy than conventional rehabilitation, by more effectively improving the swallowing function, activities of daily life, quality of life, and depression state in patients with post-stroke deglutition disorders.