Acupuncture tied to improvements in poststroke motor aphasia

Poststroke motor aphasia is a common language disorder that affects individuals who have suffered a stroke. It impairs the ability to speak, understand, read, and write. While traditional speech therapy is the primary treatment for this condition, recent studies have shown that acupuncture can also play a significant role in improving poststroke motor aphasia.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected to energy pathways, known as meridians, which can be stimulated to restore balance and promote healing.

How does acupuncture help with poststroke motor aphasia?

Acupuncture has been found to have several beneficial effects on individuals with poststroke motor aphasia:

• Improved blood circulation: Acupuncture helps increase blood flow to the brain, which can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas. This improved circulation can aid in the recovery of language function.
• Reduced inflammation: Stroke often leads to inflammation in the brain, which can further damage language centers. Acupuncture has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce this inflammation and promote healing.
• Stress reduction: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which are common in individuals with poststroke motor aphasia. By promoting relaxation, acupuncture can create a more conducive environment for language recovery.
• Neuroplasticity enhancement: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of certain neurotransmitters and growth factors that promote neuroplasticity. This is the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections, which is crucial for language rehabilitation.

What does the research say?

Several studies have investigated the effects of acupuncture on poststroke motor aphasia. One study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture combined with traditional speech therapy led to significant improvements in language function compared to speech therapy alone.

Another study published in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases showed that acupuncture improved both language comprehension and expression in individuals with poststroke motor aphasia. The participants reported increased fluency and better word retrieval abilities after acupuncture treatments.

Conclusion

While traditional speech therapy remains the primary treatment for poststroke motor aphasia, acupuncture can be a valuable complementary therapy. Its ability to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, alleviate stress, and enhance neuroplasticity makes it a promising option for individuals seeking additional support in their recovery journey.

It’s important to consult with a qualified acupuncturist and healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for poststroke motor aphasia.