ABSTRACT
A literature review was performed to investigate the possible mechanism of scalp acupuncture in stimulating the skin, fascia, muscle, and periosteum and thus affecting cerebral cortex function. The results of literature research show that the effect of scalp acupuncture on cerebral cortex function may be achieved by the stimulation of specific anatomical structures. Stimulation of the skin, fascia, muscle and periosteum can activate the functional areas of the cerebral cortex through the midbrain, thalamus, and brainstem. In addition, different depths of stimulation may affect the deep and shallow sensation of the brain, self-monitoring of the fascia, subcortical central compensation, and cortical discharge. Therefore, exploration of the specific rules and differences in the effect of stimulating different anatomical structures on brain function is the future focus of the clinical and basic research on scalp acupuncture.