Possible Effects of Acupuncture in Poststroke Aphasia
Zhuo B, Deng S, Li B, Zhu W, Zhang M, Qin C, Meng Z · Behavioural Neurology · 2023 April 12
DOI 10.1155/2023/9445381
Objective
To investigate the potential neural mechanisms by which acupuncture promotes recovery from poststroke aphasia, focusing on synaptic plasticity and the integrity of gray and white matter.
Conclusions
This study summarizes evidence suggesting that acupuncture may promote recovery from poststroke aphasia by regulating neurotransmitter and glutamate receptor availability, synaptic plasticity, and astrocyte activity, thereby supporting the reorganization of language networks and the integrity of gray and white matter.
Critical Appraisal
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Insights
Acupuncture may support language recovery after stroke by reshaping brain connections, regulating chemical signaling, and protecting both gray and white matter.
This study reviewed existing research on how acupuncture may aid aphasia after stroke, focusing on neural plasticity, synaptic function, neurotransmitter activity, glutamate receptors, astrocyte regulation, and the structural integrity of gray and white matter.
The reviewed evidence suggests that acupuncture could promote recovery by reducing harmful excessive neural excitation, improving communication between neurons, supporting synaptic remodeling, and helping reorganize language-related brain networks after stroke.
