Ann Anesthesiol Fr. 1978 ; 19(5): 422-6.

[Effects of percutaneous heterosegmental electric stimulation (electro-acupuncture) on the nociceptive flexion reflex in man]

Boureau F, Sebille A, Willer JC, Bathien N, Derouesne C.

A comparative study of the effects of electro-acupuncture of the HO KU point and of a placebo control point were carried out in man, taking as an objective test of pain the threshold of a pain induced flexion reflex. In the absence of electrical stimulation of the HO KU point, or of the control point, no variation in the painful reflex threshold was seen. This remained stable throughout the experimental session. However, electrical stimulation of the HO KU point resulted in a 115 p. 100 increase in the reflex threshold, whilst that of the control point resulted in an increase of 20 p. 100 in the threshold of the same reflex. These results are discussed on the basis of data in the literature.