Kenta Sawazaki, Hidetoshi Hoshikawa, Hiroyuki Nakazawa, Takayasu Murakami

Faculty of Health Promotional Sciences, Tokoha University

Abstract 

Background: The use of noninvasive skin stimulation with microcones for constipation is promising. Objective: To assess the effects of noninvasive skin stimulation with microcones on constipation. Methods: The study included 44 subjects with a score of 5 points or higher in the Japanese version of the constipation assessment scale (CAS-J). The subjects were randomly divided into the following two groups: stimulation group (skin stimulation device with microcones, n = 23; group S) and placebo group (identical device without microcones, n = 21; group P).The study assessed the severity of constipation, total mood disturbance (TMD) score, and salivary amylase activity. Measurements were obtained before, during, and after the intervention.

Results: With regard to the CAS-J score, significant differences were observed in both groups; however, no significant differences were observed between the groups. With regard to the TMD score, significant differences were observed in group S but not in group P. With regard to salivary amylase activity, there were no significant differences in both groups; however, significant differences were noted after the intervention between the groups.

Conclusions: Noninvasive skin stimulation with microcones may relieve constipation and improve TMD scores and salivary amylase activity. 

Keywords: Noninvasive skin stimulation, acupuncture, microcones, constipation