[Analysis of characteristics of meridians and acupoints selected for treating migraine in past dynasties based on data excavation].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the regularity of selection of meridians and acupoints for treating migraine in past dynasties.


METHODS
The data were collected from 178 kinds of literature concerning acupuncture and moxibustion from the Pre-Qin Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, based on which bibliographic database in ancient acupuncture and moxibustion for treating migraine was established. By way of data excavation and analysis, meridians and acupoints and their combinations frequently used for the treatment in successive dynasties were screened, and the potential regularity was searched.


RESULTS
In the treatment of migraine, the Gall Bladder Meridian was the meridian used most frequently, and both local and remote points in the four extremities were used. Acupoints in yang meridians, especially Fengchi (GB 20), Sizhukong (TE 23) and Shuaigu (GB 8) in Shaoyang meridians were used most frequently. In terms of classification of the special points selected, besides the Crossing Points with meridian qi passing through and crossing in the head, points below the elbow and knee joints, such as Source points, Luo Points, Eight Confluence Points, as well as Five Shu Points were also much frequently used.


CONCLUSIONS
According to data excavation and analysis of references recorded on the treatment of migraine by acupuncture and moxibustion in past dynasties, it is concluded that meridian theories are the foundation and prerequisite for guiding clinical treatment and point selection, in which special acupoints are the main components and the core in point prescription.
Zhao
Ling
L
Acupuncture College in Chengdu University of TCM, Chengdu, China.
Ren
Yu-lan
YL
Liang
Fan-rong
FR
D015669:Acupuncture Points; D015670:Acupuncture Therapy / Q000266:history* / Q000379:methods; D002681:China; D049668:History, 15th Century; D049669:History, 16th Century; D049670:History, 17th Century; D049671:History, 18th Century; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D049691:History, Medieval; D016740:Meridians; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D009071:Moxibustion / Q000266:history / Q000379:methods