A PRISMA-Based Qualitative Review of Acupuncture Protocols in Autism Spectrum Disorder
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47363/JTMCM/2026(4)132Keywords:
Acupuncture, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Integrative Medicine, Sun Simiao, ElectroacupunctureAbstract
Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition that often requires individualized and multimodal therapeutic strategies. In the absence of curative treatments and given the limitations of pharmacological management, interest has grown in nonpharmacological interventions, including acupuncture.
Methods: A PRISMA-guided qualitative review was conducted using PubMed, VIP, Scopus, and Embase, covering studies from inception to December 2025. Human studies published in English or Chinese that clearly reported acupuncture methodology and acupoint selection were included. Eighteen studies-comprising randomized controlled trials, non-randomized studies, and case reports-were retained. Data extraction focused on acupuncture modality, session duration, treatment dosage, acupoint and meridian selection, theoretical rationale, and control conditions. Risk of bias in randomized controlled trials was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool.
Results: Manual acupuncture was the most frequently investigated modality (10 studies, 55.56%). Session durations of 20–30 minutes were most common (9 studies, 50.00%). Treatment intensity most frequently involved 21–40 sessions per cycle (8 studies, 44.44%), followed by moderate-intensity regimens of 41–90 sessions (5 studies, 27.78%). Frequently reported acupoints (≥4 studies) included Sishencong (EX-HN1), Baihui (GV20), Naohu (GV17), Zusanli (ST36), Neiguan (PC6), Sanyinjiao (SP6), Shenting (GV24), Yintang (EX-HN3), and Benshen (GB13). Meridian-level analysis showed predominance of the Governing Vessel (66.67%).
Conclusion: This review highlights substantial methodological heterogeneity in acupuncture studies for ASD, alongside recurring patterns in treatment parameters and acupoint selection. Cranial midline and Governing Vessel–related acupoints were commonly emphasized, often combined with distal limb points. This overview may help inform future clinical trial design.
