Exploration on the mechanism of Xingnao Kaiqiao Acupuncture Method in alleviating pain disorders from the perspective of treating spirit to intervene negative emotions

doi:10.3877/cma.j.issn.2095-3240.2026.02.009

Abstract

Abstract:

Based on the traditional Chinese medicine theory of treating spirit, this paper analyzes the internal correlation between pain disorders and negative emotions such as depression and anxiety. It elaborates the theoretical connotation of spirit-regulating and analgesic effects of the Xingnao Kaiqiao Acupuncture method established by Academician Shi Xuemin, a Master of Chinese Medicine, and further explores its potential therapeutic mechanisms. The study indicates that this acupuncture protocol may target and activate the prefrontal cortex-amygdala-brainstem neural circuit integrating pain and emotions, mediated mainly by β-endorphin. It coordinately regulates the balance of monoamine neurotransmitters and the functional homeostasis of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, reverses central sensitization, and breaks the vicious cycle of "pain-negative emotion". Ultimately, it achieves bidirectional regulation of spirit soothing and pain relief. This study aims to provide a novel clinical strategy for the treatment of pain disorders in traditional Chinese medicine based on emotional regulation.

Key words: Acupuncture, Pain, Xingnao Kaiqiao, Negative emotions

Jinna Ma, Jie Xiong. Exploration on the mechanism of Xingnao Kaiqiao Acupuncture Method in alleviating pain disorders from the perspective of treating spirit to intervene negative emotions[J]. Chinese Journal of Acupuncture and Moxibustion(Electronic Edition), 2026, 15(02): 111-116.

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