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  • Sama Ali-Berchem

Does Acupuncture help with Sleep?

Updated: Mar 17, 2023



Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? Do you wake up tired and exhausted? If you are like 99% of Americans, you most likely experience these symptoms. But the big question you want to know is this — Is acupuncture effective in helping with sleep? The answer is a resounding YES! If you want to find a way to treat your sleep problems today, then it’s time to find a reliable service for Herbal Medicine in Bloomington MN today.

What happens During Acupuncture?

When you come in for an acupuncture session, the practitioner will ask you some questions about your health and lifestyle. They may also do a physical exam to determine whether or not acupuncture is right for you. The needles themselves are very thin and disposable—they won’t need to be cleaned between uses like traditional needles do. Each needle is individually sterilized and kept in its own individual package to ensure that no cross-contamination is possible. After assessing your condition and asking what issues you'd like to be treated, the acupuncturist will apply the needles gently and painlessly to pressure points throughout your body. After this point, you'll rest for a time with the needles inside you. This process takes anywhere from half an hour to a whole hour, though some treatments require more time than others.

Can Acupuncture work for everyone?

Acupuncture is a natural form of medicine, and so it can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions. From migraines to infertility, from back pain to depression, from eczema to IBS—there are many different types of conditions that acupuncture can help alleviate. Acupuncture has also been proven effective at treating addiction problems in both adults and teens. However, there are some people who may want to consult other treatments first before seeking out a local acupuncturist. Those with blood disorders may experience more bleeding and bruising than a normal patient. Although it's unusual to experience either when receiving acupuncture treatment, those with bleeding disorders may experience more pronounced symptoms. In addition, those who are using blood thinners should consult their doctor before undergoing acupuncture treatment.

Does Acupuncture hurt?

The good news is no, acupuncture does not hurt. It is a very relaxing treatment and most people experience a sense of well-being after the session. If you are worried about feeling pain, talk to your acupuncturist before your first visit. He or she can let you know what to expect during treatment. Acupuncture Needles are often thinner than a strand of hair, and don't cause any pain during insertion, or during treatment. Occasionally, patients may notice a tingling sensation around needle sights, but it is usually mild and never painful.

How Many treatments will I need?

This varies from person to person, but most patients will need between four and eight sessions. Acupuncture Treatments can be spaced weeks apart or done daily for several days of the week. It's best to talk with your acupuncturist about what treatment schedule is best for you. However, it is important to note that acupuncture almost always takes time. Especially for chronic or persistent problems, acupuncture requires consistent treatment plans.

Treating Sleep Problems with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an effective treatment for sleep problems. It can help you fall asleep and stay asleep, as well as reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. Acupuncture can also help reduce the frequency of nightmares, which is especially helpful for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Acupuncture has been shown to improve sleep in all age groups, including children. If you're someone who has had persistent sleep problems, acupuncture may be the perfect solution for you.

Individualized Treatment Plan

Before your acupuncturist can assist with your sleep problems, they'll need to discuss your symptoms, the reasons why you're having trouble sleeping and if there are any medical conditions that could be contributing to your insomnia. They'll also ask you about any medications you take, including over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Your acupuncturist may also ask about your diet, including whether or not you have been eating healthily and exercising regularly. Once they analyze the factors that could be affecting your condition, they'll develop a personalized treatment plan to help you get a good night's sleep. The treatment options for insomnia are as varied as the causes of the disorder, and your acupuncturist will likely recommend several different methods to address yours. For example, if stress is contributing to your insomnia, they may suggest certain relaxation techniques that you can use before bed to calm down.

Are you interested in finding an acupuncturist near you? Someone who specializes in herbal medicine, chronic pain, nerve pain and nerve pain relief, fatigue, insomnia, ATP Resonance BioTherapy™, LIFE Fertility BioTherapy™, and other forms of alternative medical care? Edina Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine is here to help you feel your best again. If you're looking for a licensed herbalist and acupuncturist in St. Paul, Minneapolis, or the Twin Cities area, reach out to Edina Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine today.

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