Jiatong Hu,1,* Hongxuan Tong,2,* Jiale Zhang,2,3 Lijie Jiang2 

1Guanganmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 2Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 3China Science and Technology Development Center for Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China

*These authors contributed equally to this work

Correspondence: Jiale Zhang, Email zhang_tcm@163.com Lijie Jiang, Email jlj430@163.com

Abstract: Musculoskeletal pain imposes a significant burden due to its high prevalence and complex pathophysiology. This perspective paper examines the current knowledge regarding the underlying mechanisms of musculoskeletal pain conditions and explores the therapeutic potential of acupotomy. Preliminary evidence suggests that acupotomy holds promise in effectively alleviating pain, improving functional outcomes, and facilitating myofascial tissue healing in individuals with musculoskeletal pain. However, further studies are warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms through which acupotomy modulates fascia and trigger points, thus influencing pain processing. The targeted and precise nature of acupotomy in addressing specific trigger points and promoting tissue healing offers a promising approach for managing musculoskeletal pain. Nevertheless, additional research is imperative to comprehensively understand its mechanisms of action and optimize treatment protocols. This perspective paper critically contributes valuable insights into the contemporary understanding of musculoskeletal pain and underscores the potential of acupotomy as a valuable treatment modality.

Keywords: musculoskeletal pain, acupotomy, needle knife, myofascial tissue, acupuncture