[Closed-loop neuromodulation technique brings new opportunities and challenges to acupuncture and moxibustion therapies]

Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2021 Jun 25;46(6):451-4. doi: 10.13702/j.1000-0607.20210063.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

In recent years, the newly appeared closed-loop neuromodulation technique composed of closed-loop controlled stimulation system and neuromodulation is the product of medicine and inter-disciplines. In medical clinical practice, the idea of closed-loop controlled stimulation can be seen everywhere. When both the patient and acupuncturist achieve the state of "Deqi" simultaneously, it is a kind of feedback adjustment process similar to that of the closed-loop stimulation system. Cross-functional multidisciplinary development is the future trend of medical science progress. The acupuncture-moxibustion discipline can draw lessons from the research experience and achievements of closed-loop neuromodulation techniques to explore the origin of the compatibility of meridians, acupoints, and needling manipulations.

近年来兴起的闭环式神经调控技术将闭环式控制刺激系统和神经调控相结合,是医学和多个学科交叉的产物。医学临床实践中,闭环式控制刺激的思维随处可见,医者、患者同时达到“得气”状态,就是一种类似闭环式控制刺激系统的反馈调节过程。多学科交叉共同发展是未来医学科学的发展趋势,美国SPARC计划和闭环式神经调控技术的出现,挑战了传统针灸通过刺激外周达到治疗效果的话语权。这些挑战同时也促使传统中医针灸必须通过理论和方法创新、多学科交叉等途径加快现代化进程,以保护和发展学科阵地。借鉴闭环式神经调控技术的发展过程,将“闭环”思想引入针灸学科,可为探索经络、腧穴、针刺手法、穴位配伍的本源及提高中医针灸的临床疗效提供新的思路。.

Keywords: Acupuncture and moxibustion; Acupuncture research; Closed-loop neuromodulation; Deqi.

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Points
  • Acupuncture Therapy*
  • Acupuncture*
  • Humans
  • Meridians*
  • Moxibustion*