Acupuncture Flashcards
Summary of evidence for acupuncture?
Overall shows to be effective (no more)
NICE accepts and recommends for chronic pain
How should acupuncture be used?
To be used alongside conventional techniques - not a replacement
Components of acupuncture?
Ying and yang
5 elements: fire, earth, metal, water, wood
Acupuncture points
Meridans
What is a meridian?
Channel for the life energy - chi
How does Chi and meridians interaction?
Chi flows through meridians to nourish organ and balance Yin and Yang
What are acupuncture points?
Not anatomical or histological structures - consistent sites tender to palpate
What is a muscle trigger point?
Dysfunctional motor end plate causing persistent contraction and ischamic areas within muscle
How does acupuncture work?
Insert needle - creating changed extracellular environment, vasodilation encourages oxygenation of tissue and washing of lactate
Motor end plate switch off
What conditions are amenable to acupuncture?
TMD Migraine/ tension headache Oral dysesthesia Xerostomia Bell's palsy
Non-surgical tx of TMD?
Local measures/ rest NSAIDs Occlusal splint Physiotherapy Acupuncture Botox CBCT
How can acupuncture to beneficial to sedation?
Acupuncture releases endorphins and serotonin in CNS leading to relaxation
Can be combined IV sedation = enhanced effect
How can acupuncture aid gag reflex?
If prominent gag reflex acupuncture/ pressure can be applied to CV24 -midline of chin
Firm finger pressure 60 sec to reduce reflex
Adv of acupuncture?
Cheap Quick Minimal training needed No specialist equipment No morbidity/ little risk Reliable
Can acupuncture provide analgesia?
No, not replacement
Contraindications for acupuncture?
Most relative
Immunocompromised, pregnant, bleeding disorder needle phobia, acute infection
