Effect of Acupuncture on Intraocular Pressure

Effect of Acupuncture on Intraocular Pressure

To evaluate the short-term effect of acupuncture on the intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods: A randomized controlled trial. Healthy volunteers will be randomly allocated to three groups: Acupuncture group - will be submitted to a 20-minute session of acupuncture with needles inserted in specific points (Tong Zi Liao, Yang Bai and Jing Ming); Sham group - will be submitted to a 20- minute session of acupuncture with needles inserted in false points located 1 cm from true points in areas without acupuncture's meridians; and Control group - no intervention. IOP measurement by a masked investigator using Goldmann applanation tonometry immediately before the intervention, as well as 30 minutes and 24 hours after the acupuncture.

Inclusion Criteria:

• healthy volunteers

Exclusion Criteria:

• glaucoma
• past intraocular surgery
• corneal alterations
• medications that interferes with the intraocular pressure