Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026
07:29
A Mechanical Construction to Enhance the Stability and Safety of Lifting and Thrusting Manipulation of Acupuncture
Published on: January 10, 2025
A transcontinental pilot study for acupuncture lifting-thrusting and twisting-rotating manipulations
Tao Huang1, Weibo Zhang, Shuyong Jia
1Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, No. 16 Nanxiaojie of Dongzhimen, Beijing 100700, China.
Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine : Ecam
|December 18, 2012
Summary
Acupuncture stimulation at the ST36 acupoint significantly lowered blood pressure and heart rate while enhancing heart rate variability (HRV). Different manipulation techniques showed distinct effects on microvascular perfusion and needling sensations.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Physiology
- Acupuncture Research
Background:
- Acupuncture is a traditional therapy with potential physiological effects.
- Understanding the impact of acupuncture on microvascular perfusion and autonomic function is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate skin microvascular perfusion changes at acupoints and related areas.
- To quantify the effects of acupuncture on blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rate variability (HRV).
Main Methods:
- Ten healthy volunteers received acupuncture at the ST36 (Zusanli) acupoint using lifting-thrusting or twisting-rotating manipulation.
- Microvascular perfusion was assessed using MOOR speckle laser blood flow scanning.
- Electrocardiogram and blood pressure were monitored before, during, and after needling.
Main Results:
- Both acupuncture manipulations decreased blood pressure and heart rate, significantly improving HRV.
- Distinct differences in microvascular perfusion were observed between the two manipulation techniques.
- Lifting-thrusting manipulation elicited stronger needling sensations than twisting-rotating.
Conclusions:
- Acupuncture at ST36 influences cardiovascular parameters and microvascular perfusion.
- Different acupuncture manipulation techniques may involve distinct physiological mechanisms.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these observed effects.
