None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
This study aims to investigate whether laser acupuncture can enhance brain and motor function in healthy adults. Laser acupuncture is a non-invasive technique that applies low-level laser therapy to specific acupuncture points to stimulate physiological responses. This research will compare the effects of real and sham laser acupuncture on corticospinal excitability and sensorimotor function. The findings may help improve our understanding of how laser acupuncture influences the nervous system and whether it has potential applications in rehabilitation or performance enhancement.
Interventions
Laser acupuncture is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that applies low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to acupuncture points to stimulate physiological responses. This technique uses a laser applicator that emits low-level laser light when applied directly to the skin surface of specific acupuncture points. The participant will remain seated comfortably during the treatment. A low-level laser device will be used to irradiate motor-related acupuncture points including Hegu (LI4), Quchi (LI11), and Shousanli (LI10). Each acupoint will receive 5 minutes of continuous laser stimulation per session. The parameters of the laser device are as follows: Wavelength: 808 nm Power output: 100 mW Energy density: 4 J/cm² per point Mode: Continuous wave Each participant will receive four laser acupuncture sessions in total. Each complete session will last approximately 120 minutes, including pre- and post-treatment assessments. The intervention will be delivered face-to-face in a controlled university research laboratory by a trained acupuncturist experienced in both traditional acupuncture and laser therapy. Standardized treatment protocols will be strictly followed to ensure consistency across sessions. Session fidelity will be assessed through direct observation, and adherence will be monitored by trained research personnel. A 48-hour washout period will be implemented between different treatment conditions in accordance with the crossover trial design.
Sponsors
Study design
Eligibility
Inclusion criteria
Participants were eligible if they were between the ages of 18 and 40, had normal cognitive function, no history of neurological or psychiatric conditions, no contraindications to or TMS, and were not taking neuroactive medications.
Exclusion criteria
Exclusion criteria included the presence of metallic implants in the head, indwelling body stimulators, a history of seizures, or current pregnancy.