Evaluating Acupuncture Relationship With the Catecholaminergic Pathway

Evaluating Acupuncture in the Treatment of Low Back Pain in Athletes and the Relationship With the Catecholaminergic Pathway

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system attenuates inflammation via catecholamines, recent advances in electroacupuncture allow activating critical neuronal networks with the release of catecholamines the aim of this research was to evaluate de effect of electroacupuncture in the activation of sympathetic nervous system and the control of low back pain in athletes

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system attenuates inflammation via activation of β2-adrenoreceptors by catecholamines, Electrical stimulation of vagus nerve limits the inflammatory response in several animal models of inflammatory diseases, In addition, voluntary activation of the sympathetic nervous system by meditation, training or breathing techniques limits production of proinflammatory cytokines in vivo during experimental endotoxemia in healthy human volunteers.

Currently there are therapies that effectively antagonize proinflammatory cytokines and control pain, as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioid analgesics, but had serious side effects if used chronically. Therefore, alternative therapies as electroacupuncture, which may limit inflammatory cytokine production more physiologically, are warranted. The aim of this study was to evaluate de effect of electroacupuncture used for attenuation of low back pain in the activation of sympathetic nervous system and leukocyte inflammatory potential.

Inclusion Criteria:

(Controls)

• Healthy
• Non Smokers
• Athletes

(Cases)

• Acute Low Back Pain (less than 1 month)
• Athletes
• Non Smokers

Exclusion Criteria:

• Sciatic Pain
• Smokers
• Chronic Low Back Pain