[Research advances in electroacupuncture parameters for functional gastrointestinal disorders]

Electroacupuncture (EA) shows marked clinical efficacy in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs)； however, there is no consensus on optimal parameter selection. This review systematically summarizes recent evidence on six key EA parameters-acupoint selection, needling depth, stimulation frequency, current intensity, waveform, and stimulation duration/frequency-in the management of FGIDs. For gastric motility disorders, deep needling at Zhongwan (CV12), Zusanli (ST36), Neiguan (PC6), and Yintang (GV24⁺) are recommended. For intestinal dysmotility, deep needling at Tianshu (ST25), Quchi (LI11), Shangjuxu (ST37), and GV24⁺ are advised. Patients with functional dyspepsia or constipation may benefit from 2 Hz/100 Hz alternating frequency, intermittent waveform, and strong but tolerable current intensity with a needle retention of 20 min, once daily, 5 days per week for 4 consecutive weeks. By contrast, low-intensity stimulation is suggested for diarrhea-predominant FGIDs. Elucidating the optimal parameter combinations and their underlying mechanisms will facilitate dynamic optimization and precision-based recommendations for EA therapy, paving the way toward acupoint-technique synergy and ultimately enhancing the reliability and personalization of clinical outcomes.