Neural transmission of acupuncture signal

Abstract

Acupuncture, one of the most prevalent methodologies of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been used in Asian countries for curing numerous diseases for thousands of years. However, the true mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of acupuncture are still under debating. The meridian model based on TCM has been used so far, for guiding the practice of acupuncture. In this model, acupuncture is believed to treat the diseased organ of the patient by balancing the Yin and Yang conditions that are regulated by an energy substance (Qi) flowing constantly through the whole meridian, a network connecting all the organs of the body. Therefore, in the acupuncture treatment, it is crucial to select special acupoint(s) along the meridian that links the diseased organs, as well as to modulate the Qi flowing in the meridian through the induction of the needling sensation (De-Qi). On the other hand, a neurobiological model established in the recent decades, has supported the notion that an important mechanism of acupuncture in curing diseases is mediated by the nervous system. Stimulation by needles at acupoints is considered to initiate acupuncture signals through the nerve fibers (e.g., Aβ and A δ) innervated at the deep tissue near the acupoints. The acupuncture signal is transmitted through the central nervous system, which activates and integrates with the neurons located in broad areas, such as those in the cortex, limbic system, brainstem, spinal cord, which in turn, regulate other systems. The nerve-mediated model provides us a better explanation regarding the biological mechanisms of acupuncture signal transmission in the body which has been broadly documented by both in vivo and in vitro studies under controlled conditions. In this chapter, we will review in particular, the research concerning the influence of acupuncture-elicited signals in the nervous system and how the neural pathways mediate the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.