September 9, 2018

Acupuncture for Stroke Hemiplegia

Does Acupuncture Work for Stroke Recovery?

One of the major key factors in whether or not acupuncture can help stroke patients is time. The sooner a patient can get acupuncture treatment, the better likelihood of good lasting results. The longer the wait, the more likely the muscles deteriorate and will be harder to make a full recovery. It is vital the patient keep moving and active to get the blood circulating again.

What is Scalp Acupuncture?

Scalp acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, dating back to ancient China. In modern acupuncture today it is one the most common treatments used for post-stroke recovery and as the name suggests, involves inserting acupuncture needles into acupoints in the scalp. In fact, scalp acupuncture rather than regular body treatment appears to be much more effective at treating neurological conditions including stroke.

The system we use at our clinic was discovered by Dr. Zhu Ming Qing, who is world famous for his work in helping stroke patients in their recovery. By combining traditional Chinese Medicine theory and western anatomy, points along the scalp are used to stimulate the brain and increase blood flow to the affected area.

How can Scalp Acupuncture assist stroke recovery?

Scalp acupuncture can be an effective way to improve neurological symptoms, including difficulty speaking/writing/reading, memory loss & reduction of motor skills, which can occur post-stroke.

The acupuncture needle insertion sites, being much closer to the affected areas of the brain, are believed to encourage the brains neuroplasticity by stimulating the cerebral cortex (region of the brain responsible for memory, perception, learning, cognition, awareness, language & motor function) (1). The needles are often stimulated slightly by the acupuncturist (this cannot be felt by the patient) and often left in for a number of hours afterwards.

How many treatments will it take to see results? 

Normally, a course of 6 treatments is suggested to start with to see how the patient reacts. There should be some improvement in motor function during that time. If no improvement we do not suggest further treatment.

I’ve had a stroke a long time ago. Can acupuncture still help me? 

Usually the more time has passed, the worse the prognosis. That doesn’t mean it is impossible. Often times we have patients who have had improvement in range of motion in the limbs and improvement in balance. Although 100% will be hard to achieve they may still improve their quality of life.

Questions on Stroke Acupuncture Brisbane? Email us at  info@artofacupuncture.com.au