Neuro-acupuncture: a century-long history
Paolo Miccichè traces the path from acupuncture in neurology to today’s neuroacupuncture. Recorded in Siena, October 2026.
Effectiveness of scalp acupuncture and comparison with traditional acupuncture for stroke: an overview of systematic reviews and updated evidence
Scalp acupuncture may help recovery after stroke, with some high-quality studies supporting effects on neurological deficits and disability, though overall evidence quality is limited.
Scalp acupuncture for post-stroke spastic hemiparesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Adding scalp acupuncture to rehabilitation appeared to improve spasticity, motor function and daily living; the trials were mostly of low quality.
Efficacy of combination scalp acupuncture for post-stroke cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Scalp acupuncture combined with other treatments improved cognition after stroke more than those treatments alone, with a high risk of bias in the included trials.
Yamamoto new scalp acupuncture: its applications and results in painful conditions. Systematic review
A promising option for pain, but only a few small trials exist and higher-quality studies are needed.
Non-invasive access to the vagus nerve central projections via electrical stimulation of the external ear: fMRI evidence in humans
Stimulating the vagus-supplied cymba conchae activated the nucleus of the solitary tract, locus coeruleus and other vagal brain areas, unlike earlobe stimulation.
The Effectiveness of Auricular Acupressure on Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Auricular acupressure gave short-term pain relief in chronic musculoskeletal pain; longer-term effects remain unclear.