The Scientific Basis of Neurofunctional Acupuncture

"Traditional acupuncture is the bicycle, electroacupuncture is the motor bike"

We speak with Dr. Alejandro Elorriaga Claraco [MD (Spain), Sports Medicine Specialist (Spain), Director McMaster University Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Program] about the science behind both traditional and neurofunctional acupuncture and their similarities and differences. Alejandro also discusses his evolution as a clinician and his integration of neurofunctional acupuncture in the treatment of high-level athletes. 

To learn more about Dr. Alejandro Elorriaga Claraco and Contemporary Medical Acupuncture, visit www.mcmasteracupuncture.com

00:24 Can you introduce yourself?

01:36 Can you give us an overview of how your approach to treatment has changed over the years?

03:04 How did you come to use acupuncture?

04:15 Can you describe the neurofunctional approach and what makes it unique?

07:37 Can you give us a specific example of how you would structure this approach when working with a patient?

15:16 Can you give an example of the different levels you would target, for example, for someone with a sprained ankle?

18:38 How would that approach differ for a persistent pain case?

22:37 There are a lot of research studies that cite the lack of quality evidence to support acupuncture and its use in treating pain. What are your thoughts on this?

29:54 Can you give us a background on Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and explain how your approach is different?

34:57 Are there any similarities between the two approaches?

37:36 Is there a scientific reason why the meridian points are so effective?

41:35 Can you discuss electro-acupuncture? How you started using it and what makes it effective?

47:50 For long term changes, is the amount of acupuncture treatments using electo-acupuncture less than with conventional acupuncture?

54:43 Are there any populations who you would not treat using acupuncture?

55:06 What can a patient expect to feel during an acupuncture session?

58:21 How would you explain the benefits of acupuncture to your patient?

59:48 Are there any risks to acupuncture?

1:02:04 Have you had a patient have a negative reaction?

1:03:04 How do you use the acupuncture approach when treating athletes?
1:06:53 Can you share a memorable story about using this approach in an athlete?

1:09:12 How can people find out more about you?