Research on acupoint selection regularity of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of post-stroke depression

Objective To observe the regularity of acupoint selection of acupuncture and moxibustion in the treatment of post-stroke depression. Methods A total of 180 patients with post-stroke depression treated by acupuncture and moxibustion were included in the study, and the observation period was 8 weeks. The classification of syndrome types, Shu acupoints used and their frequency were recorded, and location of acupoints their meridian entry as well as were analyzed. Results There were 68 acupoints and 15 meridians involved. The top ten commonly used acupoints were Baihui, Sishencong, Neiguan, Yintang, Taichong, Fengchi, Shenmen, Zusanli, Shenting and Sanyinjiao. According to the frequency of acupoint use, the top five meridians were bladder meridian, liver meridian, Du meridian, bile meridian and pericardium meridian. Conclusion Baihui, Sishencong, Neiguan, Yintang and Taichong are the most commonly used acupoints for post-stroke depression. According to the principle of syndrome differentiation of Zangfu and meridians, acupoints selection along meridians and local acupoints selection should be combined together.