Evaluation on the effectiveness and safety of acupoint application and moxibustion for children with constipation based on the theory of acupoint sensitization

CUI Ning; JI Xiaohua; ZHANG Li

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Journal of Hunan Normal University(Medical Science) ›› 2025, Vol. 22 ›› Issue (1) : 110-114.

Evaluation on the effectiveness and safety of acupoint application and moxibustion for children with constipation based on the theory of acupoint sensitization

CUI Ning, JI Xiaohua, ZHANG Li

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Abstract

Objective To comprehensively assess the efficacy and safety of the integrated application of acupoint application and moxibustion, grounded in the "acupoint sensitization" theory, in treating pediatric constipation. Methods A total of 96 constipated children were recruited from March 2020 to March 2024. They were randomly assigned to an observation group and a control group, with 48 cases in each. The observation group received acupoint application and moxibustion following the "acupoint sensitization" theory, while the control group received conventional treatment. The specific observation metrics included the pre - and post - treatment intervals between defecations, the duration of each defecation, fecal texture (evaluated according to the Bristol Stool Form Scale), defecation difficulty (categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on the children's expressions and efforts during defecation), and the alleviation of associated symptoms such as abdominal pain and distension during the treatment period. The overall response rate was calculated, and adverse reactions were closely monitored. Results In the observation group, the interval between defecations was notably shortened, the duration of each defecation was significantly reduced, the fecal texture became closer to normal, and defecation difficulty decreased, showing significant differences compared to the control group. Regarding associated symptoms, the alleviation of abdominal pain and distension in the observation group was more pronounced than that in the control group. The overall response rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group, and the incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was lower than that in the control group. Conclusion The combination of acupoint application and moxibustion based on the "acupoint sensitization" theory demonstrates remarkable effectiveness in treating pediatric constipation. It can effectively improve various constipation - related indicators and exhibits high safety. This approach offers an effective and safe traditional Chinese medicine external treatment option for pediatric constipation, thus being worthy of further promotion and application.

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sensitization of acupoints / acupoint application / moxibustion / constipation in children / effectiveness / security

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CUI Ning, JI Xiaohua, ZHANG Li. Evaluation on the effectiveness and safety of acupoint application and moxibustion for children with constipation based on the theory of acupoint sensitization[J]. Journal of Hunan Normal University(Medical Science). 2025, 22(1): 110-114

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