Meta-analysis Comparing Traditional Acupuncture Points And Ashi-points: Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a type of muscle injury that can occur following moderate-to-high intensity physical activity. More recently, acupuncture has been considered as an alternative treatment method for muscle injury, which includes DOMS. However, there have been no specific investigations into potential differences when using traditional acupuncture (points based on traditional Chinese medicine theory), Ashi-acupuncture (points not on Chinese meridian, also known as tender points), or sham-acupuncture (superficial points, or points neither on the Chinese meridian nor the tender points) for treatment of DOMS. PURPOSE: To investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment with traditional acupoints, Ashi points, and sham acupuncture to treat exercise-induced DOMS. METHODS: Data collected through November 2023 were reviewed, and sourced from seven digital databases. The study focused on reviewing the acupuncture points selection and location and treatment methods, and pain measured on a visual analog scale (VAS) right after the intervention was set as the outcome. Data was compiled and evaluated using meta-analyses. RESULTS: A total of six articles were included. The results showed that there were no significant differences between VAS for all groups (all p > 0.05). The standardized mean difference (SMD) of the VAS right after treatment between the Ashi-points and control group was 0.65 (95% CI: -3.4, 5.2). Similarly, comparisons of the Ashi-points with sham acupuncture (SMD = -1.5, 95%CI: -7.4,3.2) and traditional points (SMD = -0.21, 95%CI: -5.1,4.5) were also not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS: Acupuncture was not an effective treatment for DOMS, regardless of use. Ashi, traditional, or sham acupuncture treatment.