PA was performed in the same way in every session, but
areas of the skin that were outside a classically described
acupuncture point (minimum 1–2cm beside) were chosen.
Additionally, acupuncture needles were inserted superficially
into the subcutaneous layer. The number of needles
did not differ between groups. After insertion, the needles
remained in their location for a period of 30 minutes without
further stimulation. The same combination of acupuncture
points and mode of stimulation was used in all patients and
sessions. Permanent needle application was not performed
for treatment.
Analysis
The staff performing TCD examinations was blinded according
the treatment protocol. Vasotonus was measured
using the blood-flow velocity parameters systolic (SFV) and
mean flow velocity (MFV) both in cm/s and the pulsality