Acupuncture For
Insomnia

Acupuncture has emerged as a widely used natural therapy for managing insomnia, whether it be for difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving deeper sleep. For those struggling with insomnia, acupuncture offers a non-pharmacological approach that targets the underlying imbalances contributing to sleep disturbances with no side effects.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, insomnia can result from an imbalance in the body’s energy flow, particularly the meridians associated with the heart, spleen, and liver. Kara Morton, L.Ac., who specializes in helping people with sleep disturbances, will go over an in depth health history including diet, lifestyle, emotions and mindset to find the root imbalance, along with symptoms to customize treatments specific to you. If you are ready to wake up and feel fresh and revitalized each day, our acupuncturist Kara has extensive training to support you getting deeper sleep.

BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR INSOMNIA

Regulation of Neurotransmitters and Hormones: Acupuncture influences neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation and the sleep-wake cycle. By balancing these neurotransmitters, acupuncture promotes relaxation and supports better sleep. Additionally, research shows it may stimulate the release of melatonin, a hormone critical for regulating sleep patterns, especially for people with insomnia.

Reduction of Stress and Anxiety: Many people experience insomnia due to high stress levels or anxiety, which activate the body’s stress response and hinder relaxation. Acupuncture has a well-documented calming effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety by regulating the autonomic nervous system by stimulating the parasympathetic state, which is ideal for sleep. Studies also show that acupuncture can reduce cortisol levels, a stress hormone often elevated in individuals with insomnia.

EFFICACY AND RESEARCH SUPPORT

A 2019 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reviewed 30 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving over 2,000 participants and concluded that acupuncture was associated with significant improvements in sleep duration and quality when compared to no treatment or sham acupuncture.

One randomized controlled trial in Sleep Medicine found that participants receiving acupuncture showed a 93% improvement in sleep quality and duration compared to only 33% in the control group. This study highlighted how acupuncture may have more lasting effects than pharmacological options, as participants continued to experience improved sleep even after the treatment period.