Effect of scalp acupuncture at Po-Shen and Shen -Hun on sustained attention in healthy young adults: A Pilot Randomized control trial

Abstract

Background: In the current digital era, increased exposure to short-form media has contributed to a reduced ability to maintain prolonged focus on tasks. Sustained attention is essential for effective task performance and daily functioning. Scalp acupuncture, a non- invasive approach from Traditional Chinese Medicine, targets specific regions such as the Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands associated with attention regulation. However, its effect on sustained attention in healthy individuals remains insufficiently explored.

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of scalp acupuncture at the Po-Shen and Shen- Hun bands on sustained attention in healthy young adults.

Objectives: The primary objective was to assess changes in sustained attention following scalp acupuncture. The secondary objective was to evaluate changes in cognitive function after the intervention.

Materials and Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial design was adopted. A total of 32 healthy participants aged 18–25 years were recruited and screened using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Eligible participants (MMSE >27) were randomly allocated into intervention (n=16) and control (n=16) groups. The intervention group received scalp acupuncture at Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands, while the control group received sham acupuncture. The intervention was administered for two blocks of 10 consecutive days with a 5-day interval. Sustained attention and cognitive performance were assessed before and after the intervention using the Sustained Attention Response Task (SART) and the Stroop Colour and Word Test (SCWT). Data were analyzed using JAMOVI (2.7.26) Was used for statistical analysis.

Participants: Thirty-two healthy young adults from a university setting who met inclusion and exclusion criteria and provided informed consent were included in the study.

Study Design: This study was a pilot randomized controlled trial with parallel groups and assessor- based pre- and post-intervention evaluation.

Assessment Tools: Sustained attention was assessed using the SART (sustained attention response task), and cognitive function was evaluated using the SCWT (Stroop Colour and Word Test).

Intervention: The intervention involved scalp acupuncture at the Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands using standard needling techniques, while the control group received sham acupuncture at non-therapeutic points.

Hypothesis: Scalp acupuncture would significantly improve sustained attention and cognitive performance compared to the control group.

Null Hypothesis: There would be no significant difference in sustained attention or cognitive performance between the intervention and control groups.

Keywords: Scalp acupuncture, sustained attention, cognition, Po-Shen, Shen-Hun, SART, Stroop test, randomized controlled trial.