The Connection of Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) in Neurological Diseases

Neurological diseases include a broad spectrum of disorders that impact the structure or function of the CNS and PNS. ¹ The CNS and PNS are closely interconnected and work together to coordinate body functions. The CNS, consisting of the brain and spinal cord, processes and integrates information, while the PNS branch directly from CNS, forms bidirectional communication with the CNS and the rest of the body by transmitting sensory input to the CNS and carrying motor commands from it to organs and other systems.^2-4 Due to the interconnection, CNS neurological conditions can affect the PNS and vice versa.²

Brief Understanding of Central Nervous System (CNS) Disorders

With multifactorial and dynamic pathogenesis, CNS diseases encompass a diverse and complex array of disorders which can lead to serious clinical consequences, including impairment in functions such as language, movement, sensory, behaviour, cognitive and memory.^5-8 This often involves neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease), cerebrovascular disorders (e.g. ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke), demyelinating diseases (e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS)), movement disorders (e.g. Tourette syndrome, cerebellar ataxia, dystonia), epilepsy and seizure disorders.¹

Nerve Impingement or Compression in Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Nerves travel alongside muscles, tendons, bones, and ligaments, meanwhile it needs enough room to slide and move. Nerve impingement can be caused by any pressure, swelling, or narrowing in these surrounding structures as the position or characteristics of surrounding tissues may alter.^9,10 This happens often due to injury, repetitive motions, poor posture, inflammation, or age-related disc degeneration, and may affect any nerve path in the body.^11-14 As the pressure interferes with nerve function, nerve signals will be disrupted, causing pain, tingling, or numbness.¹⁵ If left untreated, this condition may worsen, further persistent yet severe nerve compression may cause nerve damage and ultimately disability. ¹¹

How Acupuncture Works?

Acupuncture is proven to be an effective treatment modality towards nerve related problems.¹⁶ Researches have shown that acupuncture promotes nerve regeneration and repair.^16,17 While enhancing circulation, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation and regulates body fluid homeostasis, leading to reduction of tissue swelling.^18-20 Furthermore, acupuncture facilitates tissue remodelling,¹⁶ as needle insertion and stimulation triggers the biomechanical response of different tissue layers²¹ along with release of soft tissue adhesions and contractures through the use of different acupuncture technique.²²

Why Use Palpation-Guided Acupuncture (PGA)? 

PGA works as an improved version of traditional acupuncture which effectively identifies the hidden root cause of the disease and provides a clearer understanding of the patient’s condition. Although with the similar symptomatic site, the pathological location and factors that cause the neurological condition vary from person to person due to different body constitution. The combination of PGA with individual examination results allows the practitioner to understand the pathological characteristics of different patients and to develop higher precise treatments rather than relying solely on standardized treatments and acupoints. With PGA, we aim to provide long term recovery.

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