ABSTRACT
[Objective]We researched the effect of five distal acupuncture points that is used for a treatment of eye disorders. [Method]This study was conducted on healthy non-smoking volunteers. We observed change at the time of the rest (Study 1, the control group n=65), and we observed effects of ocular circulation by acupuncture stimulation (Study 2, the stimulus group n=118). Stimulus groups were divided into five groups that are according to the acupoint stimulated as following:GB20 (Fuchi) group, LI4 (Gokoku) group, BL18 (Kanyu) group, GB37 (Komei) group and LI11 (Kyokuchi) group. Blood-flow velocity and pulsatility index (PI) in the central retinal artery (CRA) of the eye were measured using color Doppler imaging. An acupuncture needle was retained for 15min at the selected point. Dates were obtained at intervals of 7.5 min for a total of seven times during a 45-minute period while the subject was in the sitting position. [Results]In the control group showed no significant changeas for all cases of blood-flow velocity and PI. In groups with the stimulus showed that blood-flow velocity in the CRA was increased significantly and PI was decreased significantly. Blood pressure and heart rate scarcely changed in two groups.[Conclusion]These results suggest that acupuncture on the distal acupuncture points that is used for a treatment of eye disorders changes the circulation of CRA. The effect on the ocular circulation was greater in GB37 or in LI4, and was comparatively smaller in GB20.