International Journal of General Medicine (Jan 2024)
Treatment of Depression with Acupuncture Based on Pathophysiological Mechanism
Abstract
Bo Sun,1 Xuewei Cao,2 Ming Xin,3 Ruiqian Guan4 1Neurology Department, The 962nd Hospital of the PLA Joint Logistic Support Force, Harbin, People’s Republic of China; 2Cardiopulmonary Department, Jiamusi Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, People’s Republic of China; 3Neurology Department, Xin Wanhe Acupuncture Clinic, Harbin, People’s Republic of China; 4Massage Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Ruiqian Guan, Email [email protected]: Depression is a prevalent mental disorder and has a profound impact on an individual’s psychological and physical well-being. It is characterized by a persistently depressed mood, loss of interest, energy loss, and cognitive dysfunction. In recent years, more and more people have changed to mental diseases, such as depression, anxiety, mania and so on. In the incidence of depression, covering all ages, but still mainly young and middle-aged women. Traditional treatments for depression mainly rely on medication and psychotherapy, but these methods are not effective for all patients and are often accompanied by certain side effects. Therefore, finding safe and effective alternative or adjuvant treatments has become a priority. Here we highlight the research progress of acupuncture in the treatment of depression and to explore the mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of depression. Acupuncture treatment of depression is an ancient and effective method, the mechanism involves multiple biological pathways, for example, by regulating neurotransmitter levels, regulating the neuroendocrine axis, improving neuroplasticity, anti-inflammatory and other effects, improving emotional state and play an antidepressant role. To provide evidence to support the widespread use of acupuncture in clinical practice. We hope to provide new treatment ideas and methods for patients with depression, and even reduce the incidence of depression.Keywords: acupuncture, depression, mechanism
