Effect of acupuncture at ST36 on motor cortical excitation and inhibition

• DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1370
• Publication Date: 2019-07-30T08:34:27Z
• Authors: Zhong‐Guang Sun; Yan‐Ling Pi; Jian Zhang; Miao Wang; Jun Zou; Wei Wu
• Keywords: Zusanli; Sensation; Evoked potential

Abstract Background Acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) is often used to facilitate motor recovery after stroke. However, the effect of acupuncture ST36 on cortical excitation and inhibition remains unclear. This study aimed explore inhibition. Methods Twenty healthy volunteers were recruited receive treatment. We selected acupoint its respective sham point as experimental acupoint. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was measure motor‐evoked potentials (MEP) 7 time points—before (Pre), (T0), 4 8 min (T4; T8), needle removal (T12), (T16; T20). Simultaneously, paired TMS (pTMS) employed short‐ long‐interval intracortical (SICI [short latency inhibition]; LICI [long inhibition]), respectively, three (T12). After removing needle, all subjects asked quantify their Deqi sensation using a Gas table. Results The average score during higher than that observed point. With ST36, MEP amplitude points (T0, T4, T8) Pre, although tended toward Pre removal. also same Furthermore, correlated with amplitude. SICI T0 those Conclusion increased had an remaining phase. decreased