| ObjectiveChronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) was officially named in 1988 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S government. The incidence of CFS rises year after year and causes enormous economic losses. At present, there are no effective treatment methods because of its unclear etiology and pathogenesis. Clinically, Western medicine lacks an effective treatment method, however, this syndrome belongs to the dominant diseases of TCM. As a non-pharmacological therapy, with its safe, effective, non-toxic, and non-side-effect characteristics, tuina has a great predominance in treating CFS. Therefore, using information from previous literature as a foundation, we demonstrated the theoretical basis for treating CFS with tuina by engaging in research using the random comparison principle to design the experiment, and looking at the effect of mechanical massage on regulating endocrine functions in rats with CFS. By observing the weight, behavior, and CNS monoamine neurotransmitter concentrations, the principle of regulating endocrine functions in rats with CFS using mechanical massage was deduced.MethodsSeventy-two male Wistar rats were evenly randomized into control, model and mechanical massage groups. The spleen deficiency CFS rat model was established by Stress method. Mechanical massage was applied. Behavioral studies and changes in hypothalamic and hippocampal tissue monoamine neurotransmitter concentrations were measured.Results:1. Behavioral studies:After the treatment group received mechanical massage treatment, every aspect of the behavioral studies observed was significantly better than that of the model group (P<0.05 or P<0.01).2. Monoamine neurotransmitter concentrations in the hypothalamic and hippocampal tissues of the treatment group were significantly closer to normal values than those in the model group P<0.05 or P<0.01.Conclusion:1. Mechanical massage could markedly reverse the physical fatigue and mental fatigue of the model rats, as seen by an increase in physical activity, recovery of stamina, an increase in interest in their surroundings, and a more lively spirit.2. Mechanical massage can regulate disorder in hypothalamic and hippocampal monoamine neurotransmitter concentrations in CFS model rats. Adjusting monoamine neurotransmitter concentrations can be one of the mechanisms through which mechanical massage can effectively treat CFS. |