Acupuncture for Insomnia

Summary of "Acupuncture for Insomnia: Sleep and Dreams in Chinese Medicine" by Hamid D. Montakab

Introduction

• Topic: Acupuncture's role in treating insomnia, incorporating Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) principles.
• Context: Insomnia affects 30%-40% of the population. Standard treatments often rely on medication, which can lead to dependency and overlook long-term health risks.

Main Concepts

1. Sleep Disorders and Chinese Medicine:

   • Sleep reflects internal physiology in Chinese medicine.
   • Sleep disorders indicate an imbalance in the body's internal equilibrium, particularly concerning the Five Substances and Zang-fu organs.

2. Insomnia Types:

   • Differentiated into primary, secondary, acute, and chronic insomnia.
   • Primary insomnia isn't caused by other conditions, whereas secondary insomnia is.
   • Acute insomnia is short-term, whereas chronic insomnia lasts longer and occurs frequently.

3. Chinese Medicine Approach:

   • Focuses on the Eight Extraordinary Channels, crucial for adapting to changes and maintaining internal balance.
   • Emphasizes individualized treatment rather than standard point combinations.
   • Integrates Western neurohumoral theories with Chinese concepts for a comprehensive understanding of sleep.

4. Treatment of Insomnia with Acupuncture:

   • Effectiveness of acupuncture in treating insomnia.
   • Importance of diagnosing insomnia based on CCM principles for more effective treatment.
   • The treatment approach involves personalized acupuncture based on the diagnosis of Extraordinary Channels.

Conclusion

• Acupuncture, when aligned with Classical Chinese Medicine principles, offers a holistic and effective approach to treating insomnia.
• This approach is more personalized and can potentially reduce the dependency on pharmaceuticals for treating sleep disorders.