Trigger points and sensitized acupoints:same book,different covers?

Acupoints and trigger points in traditional Chinese medicine represent two different minimally invasive therapy systems-based,respectively,on traditional acupuncture and dry needles.Many studies argue that trigger points and traditional acupoints are conceptually similar because they generally have identical locations on the human body.However,whether trigger points contribute to the formation of the traditional acupuncture technique is controversial.Although many relevant studies have been conducted,this controversy continues to hinder the development of both disciplines.Recently,researchers of Chinese acupuncture have proposed the“acupoint sensitization”theory,which postulates that traditional acupoints may be sensitized by diseases,environments,and therapies.This turns them into a“sensitized state.”Recent studies suggest that trigger points and sensitized acupoints share similar biological properties.To clarify the above-mentioned confusion,we reviewed relevant studies on these two concepts and attempted to analyze their relationship.In this paper,we provide a general summary of acupoint sensitization theory and sensitized acupoints.We then compare trigger points with sensitized acupoints by categorizing their similarities and differences,including location and range,pathological morphology,pain perception,surface temperature effects,and bioelectrical properties.We believe that,because trigger points and sensitized acupoints have many shared properties,they might constitute“the same book with different covers.”

Acupuncture for low back pain:a clinical practice guideline from the Hong Kong taskforce of standardized acupuncture practice

OBJECTIVE:To develop a clinical practice guideline to guide the treatment of low back pain by acupuncture.METHODS:An integrative approach of systematic review of literature,clinical evidence classification,expert opinion surveying,and consensus establishing via a Delphi program was utilized during the developing process.Both evidence-based practice standards and the personalized features of acupuncture were taken into considerations.RESULTS:Based on clinical evidence and expert opinions,we developed a clinical practice guideline for the treatment of low back pain with acupuncture.These recommendations have a wide coverage spanning from Western Medicine diagnosis and Traditional Chinese Medicine syndrome differentiation,to acupuncture treatment procedures,as well as post treatment care for rehabilitation and follow-ups.The recommendations for acupuncture practice included treatment principles,therapeutic regimens,and operational procedures.The levels of evidence and strength of recommendation were rated for each procedure of practice.CONCLUSION:A clinical practice guideline for acupuncture treating low back pain was developed based on contemporary clinical evidence and experts'consensus to provide best currently agreeable practice guideline for domestic and international stakeholders.