[Effect of Acupuncture Combined Physical Training and Relearning on Stroke Rehabilitation: a Multi-center Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Integrative Medicine

Background:

• Stroke rehabilitation requires effective multimodal therapeutic strategies.
• Physical training and relearning are standard interventions for stroke recovery.
• Exploring adjunct therapies to enhance functional outcomes is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture combined with physical training and relearning in stroke patients.
• To compare the long-term effects of this combined therapy against physical training and relearning alone.

Main Methods:

• A multi-center randomized controlled trial involving 364 stroke patients.
• Experimental group: acupuncture + physical training + relearning.
• Control group: physical training + relearning; 4-week treatment duration with follow-ups at 2 and 5 months.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed improvements in motor function (Fugl-Meyer scores) and daily living (FIM scores), with decreased neurological impairment.
• The experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in Fugl-Meyer and FIM scores at 2 and 5 months.
• Neurological impairment scores were significantly lower, and FIM grading was better in the experimental group at 5 months.

Conclusions:

• Acupuncture combined with exercise training and relearning effectively promotes stroke rehabilitation.
• This integrated approach enhances motor function, reduces neurological deficits, and improves independence.
• Superior long-term efficacy is observed with the addition of acupuncture to conventional rehabilitation.