Acupuncture and Responses of Immunologic and Endocrine Markers during Competition

Item

Title

Acupuncture and Responses of Immunologic and Endocrine Markers during Competition

Author(s)

Journal Publication

Date

2003

volume

35(8)

pages

1296-1302

Research Type

RCT

Keywords

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Acupuncture is used to modulate the physical well-being of athletes in Asian countries. However, there is little information on the immediate effects of acupuncture treatment on physiological or psychological responses to exercise.PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of acupuncture treatment on the physical well-being of elite female soccer players during a competition period.METHODS Subjects were divided into two groups: those who received acupuncture treatment (18.1 +/- 2.3 yr [+/-SD], N = 9) and a control group (17.7 +/- 2.8 yr, N = 12). In the treatment group, acupuncture stimulus was applied at LI 4 (Goukoku), ST 36 (Ashi-sanri) for 20 min, and ST 6 (Kyosya), LU 6 (Ko-sai) points for 15 min 4 h after the game every night during the competition period. The measured parameters included salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) level, cortisol level in saliva, subjective rating of physical well-being, and profile of mood states (POMS).RESULTS The following were the main results: 1) Exercise-induced decrease of salivary SIgA and increase of salivary cortisol were inhibited by acupuncture. 2) Acupuncture improved subjective rating of muscle tension and fatigue. 3) The POMS score was modulated by acupuncture.CONCLUSION These results support the effectiveness of acupuncture for physical and mental well-being of athletes

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plan

>1/WK

has study population number

21

has duration

3 Days

Item sets