Hyperalgesia and functional plasticity are the important components of acupoint sensitization. Reveal of the neuromechanism of acupoint sensitization may play a positive role in promoting the development of acupuncturology in the world. The nociceptors

including Aδ and C subtypes distributing in the acupoint region and target organs

are responsible for the transmission of signals of peripheral noxious stimuli and acupuncture-liking stimulation to the dorsal horns of the spinal cord and supraspinal levels. A previous study reveals that the C type nociceptors are involved in the acupoint sensitization. Recent studies indicate that there exists a subtype of mechanical responsiveness in the C type receptors

named “silent nociceptor” which is awa-kened when diseases occur

being very similar to the dynamic sensitization characteristics of acupoints. Hence

we

in the present review

make a discussion about the role of C-type silent nociceptor in the hyperalgesia and functional plasticity of the sensitized acupoint according to previous studies and recent advances

so as to provide more ideas and opportunities for the investigation on the scientific characteristics of acupoints.