Although many people with osteoporosis experienced
improvement of the condition after having acupuncture treatment it is not clear
how it does work? Recently a study exploring the underlying mechanism of
acupuncture on osteoporosis revealed that acupuncture can increase bone
morphogenetic protein-2 content in an osteoporosis model. It is published in
journal of Zhen ci yan jiu (Acupuncture research).
Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is a condition characterized
by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading bone
brittle and prone to fracture or break. It often occurs on the hip, spine, knee
and wrist. Females are more susceptible to the condition which is related to
the changes in hormone after menopause. Osteoporosis is also associated with
aging. Bone density gradually decreases as we get older. We need to supplement our
diet with minerals such as calcium, which is essential for maintaining normal
bone density level. Conventional approach for osteoporosis focuses on hormone
replacement therapy, which has many side effects such as breast cancer and
blood clots. For people prefer to non-prescription treatment acupuncture is a
good alternative therapy.
Recently researchers in China conducted a study to explore
the underlying mechanism of acupuncture with osteoporosis. They gave
acupuncture treatment to osteoporosis models 20 min daily for 30 times. At the
end of study, bone morphogenetic proteins of bone tissue and bone biomechanical
value were assessed. It was found that bone morphogenetic protein 2, which
plays an important role in the development of bone and cartilage, was
significantly increased in bone tissue from acupuncture treated group compared
with the controls. This is accompanied by the elevated bone biomechanical
value.
The study suggests that acupuncture improves biomechanical
changes in osteoporosis.
Reference:
Huagn GR et al., [Effect of electroacupuncture of
"Mingmen" (GV 4) on bone morphogenetic protein-2 expression in
osteoporosis rats]. Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2014 Apr;39(2):130-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24818497
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