Thalamocortical Mechanisms Underlying Real and Imagined Acupuncture

Both acupuncture and imagery have shown potential for chronic pain management. However, the mechanisms underlying their analgesic effects remain unclear. This study aims to explore thalamocortical video-guided treatment (VGAIT), a combination of guided imagery, using resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) three thalamic subdivisions—the ventral posterolateral thalamus (VPL), mediodorsal (MD), motor subregion (Mthal)—associated with somatosensory, limbic, circuity. Twenty-seven healthy individuals participated in within-subject randomized crossover design study. Results showed that compared sham acupuncture, real altered rsFC between default mode network (DMN) (i.e., mPFC, PCC, precuneus), as well prefrontal somatosensory cortex (SI/SII). Compared VGAIT control, demonstrated greater key nodes within interoceptive anterior insula, ACC, PFC, SI/SII), sensory cortices M1, SMA, temporal/occipital cortices). Furthermore, increased (VPL/MD/Mthal) task-positive (TPN). Further correlations differences changes heat or pressure threshold were also observed. These findings suggest both acupuncture- VGAIT-induced analgesia are associated networks. Elucidating mechanism may facilitate development, particularly VGAIT, which be used remote-delivered management approach.