The Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease with Acupuncture

Background: One in every 4 deaths in the United States is from heart disease. Coronary heart disease alone in the United States costs $108.9 billion each year, including both direct and indirect costs. Objective: The purpose of this research was to identify factors present in scientific studies related to acupuncture use as a treatment for cardiovascular disease. Methods: A pool of 109 studies were considered for inclusion in the current study. Using a literature review synthesis method, 54 articles qualified for inclusion and were reviewed. Using grounded theory, open and axial coding procedures data were generated from the 54 studies that were reviewed. Results: Three clusters/factors relating to the use of acupuncture to prevent and treat cardiovascular disorders emerged from the data. The identified clusters included: (1) interactions between meridian systems and the PC 6 acupuncture point; (2) the interactions of the brain, pain, and opioids; and (3) the interactions of nitric oxide, heart performance, and cardiomyocytes. Conclusions: Acupuncture should be considered as a preventative measure against, and treatment for, heart disease. Western and Eastern practitioners should collaborate to achieve more-efficient and effective care of patients who are experiencing cardiovascular dysfunction.