Thermographic Study on Effectiveness of Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture and Acupuncture with Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy on Upper Extremity of Healthy and Hemiplegic Group

Objectives This study was performed to evaluate the effects of acupuncture, electro-acupuncture and acupuncture with pulsed electromagnetic therapy on upper extremity of healthy people and hemiplegic patients by D.I.T.I.. Methods 20 healthy people and 20 hemiplegic patients caused by stroke were selected. They have been treated three different types of treatment; acupuncture, electro-acupuncture and acupuncture with pulsed electromagnetic therapy. And skin temperature of upper extremity has been measured before and after each treatment by D.I.T.I.. The thermographic data was analyzed by 'Independent T-test' and 'Repeated measures ANOVA test'. Results 1. In healthy group, there was very statistical significant difference (p<0.001) of the amount of thermal change by each treatment, and the amount of change was arranged in descending order; acupuncture with pulsed electromagnetic, acupuncture and electro-acupuncture. 2. In hemiplegic group, the skin temperature of hemiplegic side was $0.97^{\circ}C$ cooler than non-hemiplegic side. 3. Skin temperature of all hemiplegic patients was increased after acupuncture treatment. 4. In hemiplegic group, there was statistical significant difference (p<0.05) of the amount of thermal change by each treatment, and the amount of change was arranged in descending order; acupuncture with pulsed electromagnetic, acupuncture and electro-acupuncture. Conclusions The results indicate that acupuncture, electro-acupuncture and acupuncture with pulsed electromagnetic therapy had good effect on the change of skin temperature by stimulating sympathetic nervous system.

건강인군과 편마비군에 시행한 침, 전침 및 박동성 전기자장 치료가 상지의 체열 변화에 미치는 영향