Systemic acupuncture application does not change muscle performance parameters in women: A randomized, controlled,...

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Complementary Therapies

Background:

• Acupuncture is explored as an ergogenic aid in sports, with prior studies suggesting potential benefits for muscle strength, aerobic power, and vertical jump.
• However, existing evidence on acupuncture's ergogenic effects remains inconclusive, necessitating further investigation.
• This study focuses on the immediate impact of acupuncture on lower-limb muscle performance in physically active women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate effects of a single acupuncture session on lower-limb muscle performance.
• To assess changes in vertical jump height and isometric muscle strength following acupuncture intervention.
• To evaluate acupuncture's potential as an ergogenic resource in sports and exercise.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, controlled, double-blind pilot study involving 31 young, physically active women.
• Participants performed vertical jump and isometric knee extensor strength tests.
• Subjects were then randomized into sham acupuncture, acupuncture, or control groups, followed by repeat testing after intervention.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in mean and peak vertical jump height was observed in both the sham acupuncture and acupuncture groups.
• No significant changes in isometric muscle strength were found across any of the groups (sham, acupuncture, or control).
• The results indicate a potential negative impact or no benefit of the tested interventions on vertical jump performance.

Conclusions:

• The specific acupuncture protocol used in this study did not enhance lower-limb muscle performance in young, physically active women.
• Neither acupuncture nor sham treatment improved vertical jump height or isometric strength.
• Further research is needed to clarify the role of acupuncture in athletic performance.