Acupuncture Treatment for Stroke: When to Start and What to Expect

Acupuncture has become a widely accepted complementary therapy for stroke recovery, particularly for patients diagnosed with cerebral infarction. Medical experts recommend beginning acupuncture treatment as early as possible, typically around 2-3 days after the stroke, once the patient has passed the critical phase and entered a stable condition. Cerebral infarction, a common type of ischemic cerebrovascular disease, can lead to serious long-term complications such as unilateral limb numbness, motor dysfunction, and speech impairment. During the recovery phase, acupuncture has demonstrated significant benefits in restoring neurological and physical functions.

Understanding the Role of Acupuncture in Stroke Recovery

Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body, promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and encouraging neural regeneration. This traditional Chinese medicine technique has been integrated into modern rehabilitation protocols due to its effectiveness in improving mobility, muscle control, and cognitive functions post-stroke.

Popular Acupuncture Techniques for Cerebral Infarction

There are several well-established acupuncture approaches used in stroke rehabilitation. These include the "consciousness-opening" method, scalp acupuncture, and limb-based acupuncture techniques. Initially, practitioners often focus on head points such as Baihui (GV20) and Sishencong (EX-HN1) to stimulate brain activity and improve consciousness. These are often combined with limb points like Neiguan (PC6), Quchi (LI11), and Hegu (LI4) for upper body support, while lower limb recovery may involve points such as HuanTiao (GB30), Yanglingquan (GB34), and Sanyinjiao (SP6).

Commitment to Treatment: How Long Does It Take?

Consistency is key when undergoing acupuncture for stroke recovery. While individual results may vary, most patients begin to notice improvements after about three months of regular sessions. Recovery within six months is considered relatively fast, but even those who continue treatment for up to a year may experience positive outcomes. For optimal results, it's highly recommended that patients maintain a consistent acupuncture regimen as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that may include physical therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle modifications.