Research progress on mechanism of acupuncture in treating functional constipation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Integrative Medicine
• Neurogastroenterology

Background:

• Functional constipation (FC) presents a significant clinical challenge.
• Current treatments for FC have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
• Acupuncture is recognized for its efficacy in managing FC.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent literature on acupuncture's mechanisms for treating FC.
• The review examines acupuncture's effects on intestinal motility, microbiota, brain-gut axis, inflammation, and rectal sensitivity.
• Evidence suggests acupuncture acts through multiple interconnected pathways.

Key Points:

• Acupuncture promotes intestinal motility and regulates gut microbiota composition.
• It modulates the brain-gut axis and alleviates intestinal inflammation.
• Acupuncture can improve rectal hyposensitivity, a key factor in FC.

Conclusions:

• Acupuncture demonstrates multifaceted therapeutic actions for functional constipation.
• Future research should elucidate specific mechanisms, such as mechanical sensation conduction and microbiota regulation.
• Optimizing acupuncture protocols based on detailed mechanistic understanding will enhance clinical outcomes for FC.