Endorphin mediated increase in
pain threshold induced by long-lasting exercise in
rats.
Shyu BC, Andersson SA, Thoren
P.
Rats were trained to run spontaneously, without stress, in
running wheels. The running activity increased gradually and could reach
a plateau of 7 km/night after 3-4 weeks. During the first hour of
running in the dark phase the squeak threshold increased significantly
and remained high in the morning. The degree of increased threshold was
correlated to the amount of running activity. The squeak threshold
declined during the following 6 hours of inactivity. A rapid decrease in
threshold occurred after naloxone (1-2 mg/kg i.p.). It is suggested that
long-lasting muscle exercise (e.g. jogging), acupuncture, and low
frequency electrical stimulation of afferent nerve fibres produce
discharges in muscle afferents which influence central endorphin
mechanisms giving analgetic effects.
PMID: 7070198 [PubMed -
indexed for MEDLINE]
Simple custom-made disposable
surface electrode system for non-invasive "electro-acupuncture" or TNS
and its clinical applications including treatment of cephalic
hypertension and hypotension syndromes as well as temporo-mandibular
joint problems, tinnitus, shoulder and lower back pain,
etc.