Application of pediatric neuro rehabilitation scalp acupuncture in children with autism spectrum disorder

LIU Zhenhuan; AI Zongxiong

doi:10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0035

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Chinese Journal of Child Health Care ›› 2026, Vol. 34 ›› Issue (3) : 250-254. DOI: 10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0035

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Application of pediatric neuro rehabilitation scalp acupuncture in children with autism spectrum disorder

LIU Zhenhuan¹, AI Zongxiong²

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Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core symptoms such as deficits in social interaction, impairments in verbal and nonverbal communication, and restricted interests accompanied by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors.Currently, modern medicine lacks targeted pharmacological treatments for ASD, and clinical management primarily relies on educational interventions and behavioral therapies.As an essential component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), scalp acupuncture therapy involves the stimulation of specific acupoints and functional regions on the scalp to directly modulate cortical activity and regulate brain function.In recent years, this therapeutic approach has demonstrated unique advantages and promising potential in the rehabilitation of children with ASD.This article systematically reviews the theoretical foundations of scalp acupuncture from both TCM and Western medical perspectives, with a focus on pediatric neurorehabilitation for ASD.It examines principles of acupoint selection, technical procedures, and key considerations in clinical practice.Furthermore, it discusses the underlying mechanisms of action, aiming to establish evidence-based protocols for the clinical application of scalp acupuncture in ASD rehabilitation.

Key words

autism spectrum disorder / scalp acupuncture / pediatric neurorehabilitation / traditional Chinese medicine rehabilitation

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LIU Zhenhuan, AI Zongxiong. Application of pediatric neuro rehabilitation scalp acupuncture in children with autism spectrum disorder[J]. Chinese Journal of Child Health Care. 2026, 34(3): 250-254 https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0035

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