As anyone with insomnia knows, sleep deprivation greatly interferes with quality of life — diminishing your energy level, concentration, cognitive ability, and negatively impacting your mood. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we understand the debilitating effects of insomnia; it is one of the difficult symptoms our treatments address.Â
We are well aware that the pain and dysfunction we physiatrists work to erase is worse for patients with chronic insomnia. We are also aware of the vicious cycle of pain and insomnia since pain often keeps us from sleeping and insomnia can worsen pain perception.
Because our approach to treatment is holistic, when you come to us for help with insomnia, we will integrate traditional and complementary therapies to help restore the balance that keeps you healthy. That’s where acupuncture, an ancient Chinese remedy conceived and developed to make the body make optimal use of its own energy flow, becomes critical. Continue reading to find out why acupuncture may bring you the blessing of sleep more efficiently than other treatments.
Insomnia and Its Causes
Insomnia is more than just occasional sleeplessness. It is a persistent disorder that affects the ability to fall asleep or stay asleep, despite the opportunity to do so. As noted, this condition can lead to daytime fatigue, mood disturbances, decreased productivity, and a diminished sense of well-being. Causes of insomnia can cover a broad range, including:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Physical illness or injury
- Chronic painÂ
- Prescribed medications
- Hormonal imbalance
- Lifestyle factors, like an irregular sleep schedule, a poor mattress, use of stimulants or illegal drugs
No matter the cause of your insomnia, now is the time to contact our doctors to discuss the benefits of acupuncture in solving this troubling problem.
Why Counting Sheep Doesn’t Work
The age-old advice of counting sheep is rooted in the idea that distraction and repetition can lead to sleep. However, if you suffer from insomnia, you know that simple distraction techniques are insufficient to provide relief. Insomnia typically has deeper causes that mere distraction cannot address, making finding a more effective treatment method essential.
Why Some Other Remedies Aren’t Effective or Desirable
Many turn to sleep medications as a quick fix for insomnia. While these can offer temporary relief, they do not get to the root cause of the disorder and can lead to dependency or disturbing side effects. Lifestyle changes, such as improved sleep hygiene and stress reduction techniques, may be helpful, but are typically insufficient to overcome chronic insomnia.
What Is Acupuncture and How Does It Work?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body to increase the free flow of energy known as Qi (chi) throughout the body. The proper flow of Qi is considered essential for health, and disruptions in this flow can lead to disease, discomfort, and the interruption of natural processes like sleep.
Modern research suggests that acupuncture may overcome insomnia by increasing the release of natural endorphins that promote relaxation and pleasure, easing our pathway to sleep. Acupuncture is also believed to affect the body’s nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, both common contributors to insomnia.
Why Acupuncture Can Be a Successful Treatment for Insomnia
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to treating insomnia, tackling not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of the condition. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress levels, and can help reset the body’s internal clock, aiding in the establishment of regular sleep patterns.
Unlike sleep medications, acupuncture is non-addictive and has only superficial side effects, making it a desirable option for long-term treatment. Patients often report not only improved sleep quality but also an overall improvement in health and a sense of inner contentment. Evidence of acupuncture’s relaxing effects can be found in the fact that individuals often doze off during an acupuncture session.
Why LI Spine Rehabilitation Medicine Is the Place to Come for Acupuncture
Our practice stands out as a premier destination for acupuncture treatment, especially for those suffering from insomnia. In our offices, acupuncture is administered by specialists with impressive acupuncture credentials who have a deep understanding of the art and science behind this ancient practice.
At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we believe healing is a collaborative effort by doctors and patients. Since our medical discipline espouses a holistic approach to patient care, we are entirely comfortable administering complementary treatments like acupuncture as well as more traditional therapeutic methods. Strong believers in the body-mind connection, we are committed to addressing not only the physical causes of insomnia but also its subliminal mental and emotional components.Â
Contact Our Experienced Acupuncture Specialists Today for a Good Night’s Sleep
Acupuncture may well be the treatment you’ve been seeking to provide you with the rejuvenating benefits of sleeping well at night and feeling rested during the day. If you’re struggling with insomnia and seeking a natural, effective solution, get in touch with us to rediscover your natural rhythm and regain your peace of mind.