The Effect of Acupressure on EEG and Heart Rate Variability
Author Information
Author(s): Young-Chang P. Arai, Takahiro Ushida, Takako Matsubara, Kazuhiro Shimo, Hiroshi Ito, Yuko Sato, Yoshiko Wakao, Toru Komatsu
Primary Institution: Aichi Medical University, School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Acupressure at the Extra 1 point would induce sedation and change sympatho-parasympathetic nerve balance.
Conclusion
Acupressure on the Extra 1 point significantly reduced EEG spectral entropy in both genders, but affected the LF/HF ratio of heart rate variability only in females.
Supporting Evidence
- Acupressure significantly reduced EEG spectral entropy values in both groups.
- The LF/HF ratio of heart rate variability significantly decreased in both groups.
- Only females in the Extra 1 group showed a significant decrease in the LF/HF ratio during and after acupressure.
Takeaway
Pressing on a special point on your forehead can help you feel more relaxed and calm, especially for girls.
Methodology
Forty-eight volunteers were randomly assigned to receive acupressure at either the Extra 1 point or a sham point, with measurements taken before, during, and after the acupressure.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the lack of a true control group for comparison.
Limitations
The study lacked a control group and did not assess the effects of acupressure over a longer period.
Participant Demographics
48 volunteers, 24 males and 24 females, ASA physical status I.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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