Acupuncture decreases pain and MIF salivary levels in men and women

Acupuncture is used worldwide to treat many diseases, including painful conditions. Acupuncture-induced effects on pain were studied in men and women to understand the various factors involved in this positive procedure able to cure patients without side effects. Vital parameters (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature) were measured and questionnaires about quality of life (SF-36), mood state (POMS) and pain condition (QUID) were administered to men and women requesting acupuncture treatment for pain. Macrophage inhibitory factor (MIF) was determined in the saliva. All parameters were determined before the first and tenth acupuncture sessions. Pain scores (questionnaire and scales) significantly decreased from the first to the last acupuncture session in both sexes. Vital parameters were not affected, while the other questionnaires indicated a general improvement in the quality of life. MIF salivary levels were higher in males than in females and were significantly decreased by acupuncture in both sexes.