This article explores the potential benefits, mechanisms, and evidence supporting acupuncture for these conditions, while also addressing its limitations and the need for further research.

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Introduction

Neurological disorders pose significant health challenges due to their complex nature and the profound impact they can have on quality of life. Stroke, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis are prevalent conditions characterised by varying degrees of motor, cognitive, and functional impairments.

Acupuncture has been posited as a possible adjunctive therapy to alleviate some of the symptoms and improve recovery outcomes in these conditions. This article discusses the role of acupuncture in stroke recovery, managing Parkinson's disease symptoms, and alleviating symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients.

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Acupuncture and stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often resulting in significant motor and cognitive impairments. Acupuncture's role in post-stroke rehabilitation has been the subject of multiple studies.

Mechanisms of action

Acupuncture is believed to enhance blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote neural plasticity, thereby facilitating recovery (Zhang et al., 2017). It also has effects on the central nervous system, potentially modulating pain pathways and releasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and endorphins (Vickers et al., 2018).

Clinical evidence

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have highlighted the efficacy of acupuncture in improving functional recovery and reducing spasticity post-stroke (Lee et al., 2016). A study by (Liu et al.,2020) found that patients receiving acupuncture in conjunction with conventional rehabilitation therapy showed significantly improved motor function compared to those receiving rehabilitation alone.

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Acupuncture and Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement control. Patients often experience tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, which can be debilitating.

Mechanisms of action

Acupuncture may have neuroprotective effects and help regulate neurotransmitter levels, particularly dopamine, which is deficient in Parkinson's (Huang et al., 2015). Additionally, it may alleviate symptoms such as pain and anxiety, which can accompany the disease.

Clinical evidence

Research has demonstrated that acupuncture can positively affect motor symptoms and quality of life in Parkinson's patients. A randomised controlled trial by (Lee et al.,2017) showed that acupuncture significantly reduced motor symptoms, as measured by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), compared to a sham acupuncture group. Furthermore, participants reported an anxiety reduction and improved overall well-being.

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Acupuncture and multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder characterised by the demyelination of neurons, leading to varied neurological symptoms. Patients often experience fatigue, pain, and mobility issues.

Mechanisms of action

Acupuncture may help in managing pain, fatigue, and spasticity in MS patients. The practice is thought to stimulate endorphin release and improve blood flow, providing symptomatic relief (Cazzola et al., 2020).

Clinical evidence

A pilot study by (Vickers et al.,2019) reported that acupuncture improved fatigue and pain levels in MS patients. Additionally, systematic reviews have suggested that acupuncture may help manage certain symptoms but emphasise the need for more rigorous trials to establish definitive efficacy (Saccà et al., 2021).

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Limitations and considerations

While acupuncture holds promise, several challenges exist. The variability in methodologies, sample sizes, and control measures across studies makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Furthermore, the subjective nature of symptoms in neurological disorders can complicate outcome measurements.

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Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

About the author of this article: Dr Partha Ghosh, BNYS, MD(YS), is a general physician, holistic healing practitioner and a medical writer from Siliguri, Darjeeling.