[Comparative study on effects between electroacupuncture and acupuncture for spastic paralysis after stroke].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

Background:

• Spastic paralysis is a common and debilitating condition following a stroke.
• Current treatments for post-stroke spastic paralysis have limitations.
• Exploring novel therapeutic approaches is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture versus traditional acupuncture for post-stroke spastic paralysis.
• To investigate the underlying mechanisms of action for these treatments.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 64 patients with post-stroke spastic paralysis.
• Participants were assigned to either an electroacupuncture group or an acupuncture group.
• Both groups received Bobath facilitation techniques and medication; electroacupuncture involved additional electrical stimulation.

Main Results:

• Both electroacupuncture and acupuncture improved functional status (SIAS scores) and modulated serum glutamate (Glu) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels.
• Electroacupuncture demonstrated superior efficacy in improving functional outcomes and normalizing Glu/GABA ratios compared to acupuncture.
• The overall effective rate was higher in the electroacupuncture group (90.9%) than in the acupuncture group (83.9%).

Conclusions:

• Electroacupuncture is an effective treatment for improving spastic paralysis after stroke.
• The therapeutic benefits of electroacupuncture may be attributed to its ability to adjust serum Glu and GABA levels.
• This study provides evidence for the neurochemical mechanisms underlying electroacupuncture's efficacy.