When it comes to finding solutions for sleep issues, many people turn to alternative therapies like acupuncture. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of acupuncture for sleep, how it works, and what research has to say about its effectiveness.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, called “acupoints.” These points are believed to correspond with the body’s energy pathways, or meridians, which help to balance the flow of “qi” (pronounced “chee”), or life energy.
Although acupuncture is often used to treat a variety of health conditions, it has gained popularity as a natural remedy for sleep disorders, including insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. 1
How Acupuncture Works
The exact mechanisms behind acupuncture are still not fully understood, but it’s believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. When needles are inserted into acupoints, it’s thought that they help to release endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
In terms of acupuncture for sleep, it’s believed that the treatment can help to:
- Regulate sleep-wake cycles
- Relieve stress and anxiety
- Balance hormones, such as melatonin and cortisol
- Stimulate the production of neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine
These effects can help to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall sleep quality. 2
Can acupuncture help restless sleep?
Yes, acupuncture may be a helpful treatment for symptoms of sleep disturbances such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and anxiety.
Researchers found that acupuncture was more effective at improving insomnia symptoms, sleep efficiency, and total sleep time during treatment.
What acupuncture points help with RLS?
The most commonly used acupuncture points for restless leg syndrome include Anmian DU20 (Baihui), GB20 (Fengchi), HT7 (Shenmen), KD3 (Taixi), LV3 (Taichong), and PC6 (Neiguan).
Acupuncture for RLS involves balancing yin and yang, promoting blood circulation, revitalizing the spleen, and regulating vital channels in the body.
How long does it take for acupuncture to help insomnia?
There is no set time frame for acupuncture to work for insomnia, but as a general rule, the patient should notice positive changes after a series of 4 – 6 treatments.
Most people with chronic insomnia take 1 week to 3 months of acupuncture treatments.
The type of insomnia you have will determine how long you should go to acupuncture therapy. For people with acute insomnia, less than 10 sessions may do the job. However, those with chronic insomnia may need ongoing treatment that involves more than one course.
Acupuncture for Sleep: The Research
Several studies have explored the benefits of acupuncture for sleep disorders. A 2009 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective than medication alone at improving sleep quality and duration. 3
Another study, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, found that participants who received acupuncture for sleep apnea experienced significant improvements in their symptoms, including a reduction in the number of apneas and hypopneas per hour. 4
In a 2018 review of studies on acupuncture for insomnia, researchers concluded that acupuncture appears to be an effective treatment for primary insomnia, with similar results to cognitive-behavioral therapy. 5
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of acupuncture for sleep, these studies suggest that it may be an effective treatment option for various sleep disorders.
How to Find a Qualified Acupuncturist
If you’re considering acupuncture for sleep, it’s essential to find a qualified practitioner. Here are some tips to help you locate a reputable acupuncturist:
- Look for a practitioner who is licensed and certified by the [National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)](https://www.nccaom.org/).
- Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers.
- Research the practitioner’s experience and training in treating sleep disorders.
- Schedule a consultation to discuss your sleep concerns and ask any questions you may have.
Conclusion
Acupuncture for sleep can be an effective treatment option for those struggling with sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind acupuncture’s effectiveness, it is a safe and natural option worth considering for those seeking relief from sleep issues.
Footnotes
- [National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Acupuncture: In Depth](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/acupuncture-in-depth) ↩
- Healthline. Acupuncture for Sleep: Can It Help You Get a Better Night’s Rest? ↩
- Sleep Medicine Reviews. Acupuncture for treatment of insomnia: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials ↩
- [Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Acupuncture Treatment of Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19422362) ↩
- Sleep Medicine. Acupuncture for primary insomnia: An updated systematic review and network meta-analysis ↩
