Acustimulation
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Acustimulation is different than acupunctureA complementary therapy in which fine sterile needles are inserted into the skin at specific points.. However, it uses Chinese acupunctureA complementary therapy in which fine sterile needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. theory to locate points on the body where electrical stimulation, is applied to reduce certain symptoms. Nausea and vomiting are believed to be the result of a disturbance in the normal nerveBundle of fibres that carries information in the form of electrical impulses. impulses passing between the brain and stomach. Acustimulation uses a mild electrical current at the wrist to restore normal signals between the brain and stomach, thus reducing nausea and vomiting. Western science explains acustimulation in terms of the nervous system rather than the circulation of chi, which is the basis of Chinese acupunctureA complementary therapy in which fine sterile needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. theory. However, the chi pathways ("meridians") have certain parallels with the nervous system. This makes it possible to use acupunctureA complementary therapy in which fine sterile needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. points to identify locations where electrical stimulation may influence certain responses of the nervous system.
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These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. |
Grade* |
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Motion sickness |
B |
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Nausea (after surgery) |
B |
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Electroconvulsive therapy-related nausea and vomiting |
C |
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Fatigue in hemodialysis patients |
C |
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High bloodA fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid. pressure |
C |
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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) |
C |
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Nausea (caused by chemotherapyThe use of chemical substances to treat disease, particularly cancer.) |
C |
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Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy |
C |
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Pain |
C |
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Gastroscopy-related nausea and retching |
C |
*Key to grades:
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work);
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).
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The only known side effect of acustimulation devices is slight skin irritation under the electrodes when the wristband is used. Switch wrists to avoid. Acustimulation devices should only be used on the designated area. Use cautiously with pacemakers. Avoid if the cause of medical symptoms is unknown. Keep acustimulation devices out of the reach of children.
Licensed by Natural Standard.
Copyright © 2012 Natural Standard (www.naturalstandard.com) Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The above monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.