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Mapping Acupoint Networks for Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Review-Based Network Analysis of Randomized Trials
Yewon Baeg1, Yi-Chuan Chang2,3, Cheng-Hao Tu4
1Department of Meridian and Acupoints, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea, khu.ac.kr.
Pain Research & Management
|June 16, 2026
Summary
This study analyzed acupuncture point usage for chronic pelvic pain (CPP), revealing common networks and distinct patterns between sexes. Findings highlight key acupoints for targeted CPP acupuncture treatments.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Acupuncture Research
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is a complex condition affecting diverse populations.
- Current acupoint selection for CPP lacks systematic characterization across randomized trials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify common acupoint networks utilized in randomized controlled trials for CPP.
- To investigate sex-specific differences in acupoint co-occurrence patterns for CPP treatment.
Main Methods:
- Secondary network analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials on acupuncture for CPP.
- Construction of acupoint co-occurrence networks using eigenvector centrality.
- Comparison of overall and sex-stratified network structures.
Main Results:
- Key acupoints identified in the overall network include BL32, LI4, CV4, GV20, and BL33.
- Acupoint networks integrate abdominal, lumbosacral, and distal limb regions.
- Females showed higher centrality for LI4 and lumbosacral acupoints (BL32, BL25, BL33); males showed higher centrality for CV4, CV3, and lower abdominal acupoints.
Conclusions:
- This analysis delineates common and sex-stratified acupoint prescription patterns for CPP.
- The findings offer a structured understanding of acupoint network organization in CPP.
- Supports future research focusing on outcome-oriented and disease-specific acupuncture for CPP.
