Effects of high-voltage galvanic stimulation of ST36 and ST37 acupuncture points on peripheral blood flow and skin temperature

In traditional Chinese medicine, ST36 and ST37 acupuncture points are commonly recommended to enhance peripheral blood circulation and digestive functions; however, there is a paucity of empirical data in support of the above recommendations. This study was designed to evaluate the effects df transcutaneous electrical stimulation of ST36 and ST37 acupuncture points on peripheral haemodynamic functions. Eleven healthy subjects (five men, six women; mean age 28 years), voluntarily participated in the study. A 2 (pulse frequency) x 3 (time-frame) experimental design was employed. The subjects' ST36 and ST37 acupuncture points were stimulated, at sensory threshold intensity, with the high-voltage galvanic (HVG) current using two (5 Hz and 120 Hz) different pulse frequencies. Skin temperature and haemodynamic functions (cutaneous blood flow, microvascular volume and erythrocyte velocity), between the first and second metatarsals of the subjects' dominant foot were monitored every 2 min, for 10 min at rest, during 20 min HVG stimulation treatment and 10 min post-stimulation. The results of the repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed no significant F-ratio for pulse frequency and time-frame main effects for any of the dependent variables. Based on our findings we conclude that percutaneously applied HVG stimulation of ST36 and ST37 acupuncture points does not increase peripheral haemodynamic functions in asymptomatic subjects.