Insomnia and other sleep disorders affect millions of people worldwide. Getting adequate, restful sleep is critical for overall health and well-being. Acupuncture is growing in popularity as an effective, drug-free treatment option for insomnia and other sleep disturbances.
How Acupuncture Helps With Sleep
Acupuncture originated in ancient China over 2,500 years ago. Fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy, or Qi. This helps regulate bodily functions and treat health conditions.
Modern research shows that acupuncture activates natural painkilling chemicals in the brain and central nervous system. Acupuncture points linked to sleep are located on the head, ear, hands, feet, and other body parts. Stimulating these points calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.
Acupuncture may help with insomnia in several ways:
– Regulates hormones involved in sleep cycles
– Lowers stress hormones like cortisol
– Increases serotonin, GABA and other neurochemicals that induce relaxation
– Balances the autonomic nervous system
– Improves sleep efficiency and total sleep time
Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as effective for treating insomnia and other sleep disorders.
What to Expect During Treatment
The initial acupuncture visit usually lasts 60-90 minutes. During this time, your acupuncturist will ask about your sleep issues and health history and perform a physical exam. Then, ultra-thin disposable needles are inserted at specific points on the body. The needles are left in place for 15-30 minutes while you relax comfortably.
Most people feel little to no pain from the needles. However, you may feel mild aching, tingling, warmth, or heaviness around the needle sites. Many people also become very relaxed, even drowsy. After the treatment, your acupuncturist may recommend lifestyle changes, herbs, supplements, or additional acupuncture sessions.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Acute insomnia may resolve after just 1-3 acupuncture sessions. Chronic insomnia often requires 6-12 weekly treatments. Maintenance sessions every month help sustain the benefits. Some patients supplement medical acupuncture with Chinese herbal formulas to enhance sleep quality.
Lifestyle habits like avoiding caffeine late in the day, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and winding down before bed also help acupuncture work better.
Give Acupuncture a Try for Better Sleep
If you struggle with insomnia or unsatisfying sleep, acupuncture may help you finally get the rest you need without drugs. At Oshawa Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Wellness Centre, our licensed acupuncturists have extensive experience using acupuncture and other treatments to improve sleep and treat insomnia. Contact us today to see how we can help you sleep better and wake up refreshed.