The Therapeutic Potential of Acupuncture in Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome

Abstract Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) represents the most common type of CP, characterized by complex pathogenesis and a wide array of symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Acupuncture, a widely used treatment for chronic and painful conditions, has demonstrated clinical efficacy in restoring prostate function and enhancing the quality of life for affected patients. This article critically examines the intricate pathogenesis of CP/CPPS and explores the related therapeutic mechanisms of acupuncture. Additionally, it summarizes the advancements made in the last decades regarding the use of acupuncture for treating CP/CPPS and elucidates potential effect pathways, laying the groundwork for further fundamental research.