A functional magnetic resonance study of the effect of acupuncture on the regulation of brain function / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To observe the differences in functional areas of the brain in response to two different acupuncture techniques using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).Methods Deqi and non-deqi acupuncture were performed on twenty healthy right-handed volunteers.fMRI was conducted in the process of acupuncture.The experiment adopted a single-chunk design and the procedure contained periods of stimulation and rest.The brain regions stimulated during deqi and non-deqi acupuncture were assessed using xjview software.Results After acupuncture at the Zusanli point (ST36),differences in activity were observed between the deqi and non-deqi groups in the language,sports,perception and limbic systems.Conclusions ①Under deqi conditions,acupuncture at ST36 increases circulation and the activation of brain areas dealing with language,sports,perception and the limbic system.This may be one of the mechanisms by which acupuncture can improve aphasia,coordination and perception.②Under deqi conditions acupuncture at ST36 decreases circulation and deactivates brain areas associated with the limbic system.This may explain acupuncture's analgesia and regulation of autonomic nerve and endocrine function,its amelioration of internal organ functions and regulation of immunologic function.