Physiologische Mechanismen der analgetischen Akupunkturwirkung - ein Update im klinischen Kontext

Acupuncture induced analgesia is based on a complex interplay of peripheral, spinal and central mechanisms. A large number of basic science and clinical studies support this notion. However it remains largely unclear how these different mechanisms are interwoven and how their contributions to the analgesic acupuncture effect compare to each other. Future studies need to address the specificity of acupuncture points or point regimens and the impact of different types and intensities of needle stimulation. In addition, it needs to be clarified whether the mechanisms identified through animal studies apply to acupuncture in humans as well.