Best Acupuncture Center in Chicago for Insomnia

How Acupuncture Can Help Treat Insomnia

Insomnia is more than just a few restless nights; it’s a condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, health, and overall well-being. While there are many conventional treatments for insomnia, acupuncture offers a natural and holistic solution that is growing in popularity. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of sleep disturbances, acupuncture can help restore balance to the body and improve sleep. Here’s a closer look at how acupuncture, such as the tailored treatments provided at Herb + Ohm in Chicago, can treat insomnia and why it might be the right choice for you.

What Is Insomnia and Who Does it Affect?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep. This condition can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Chronic insomnia can contribute to more serious health issues, including anxiety, depression, and an increased risk of heart disease.

Insomnia affects people of all ages and backgrounds. However, it’s particularly common among those who experience high levels of stress, work irregular hours, or face hormonal changes—such as women going through menopause. (As an aside, Herb + Ohm acupuncture and integrative medicine clinic specializes in treating women's health issues.) For some, insomnia may last only a few days or weeks (acute insomnia), while for others, it can persist for months or even years (chronic insomnia).

How Acupuncture Can Help with Insomnia at Chicago's Herb + Ohm Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine Clinic

Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body to regulate energy, or "qi." In the context of insomnia, acupuncture works by addressing imbalances that disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle. Here are the key ways acupuncture can help:

1. Regulates Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are major contributors to insomnia. Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate the nervous system by promoting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and endorphins, which can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. For many people, just a few sessions of acupuncture can help quiet the mind and improve their ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

2. Balances Hormones

Hormonal imbalances, especially during menopause or pregnancy, can be a significant cause of insomnia. Acupuncture helps regulate the endocrine system, which is responsible for hormone production and regulation. By restoring balance to the body’s natural hormone levels, acupuncture can reduce the frequency and severity of sleep disturbances caused by hormonal shifts.

3. Improves Overall Sleep Quality

Unlike medications that only address the symptoms of insomnia, acupuncture treats the root cause of the issue. By improving the flow of energy throughout the body, acupuncture helps to rebalance the body’s systems and create an environment that supports restful, restorative sleep. Over time, patients often report not only falling asleep faster but also waking up less frequently during the night and feeling more refreshed in the morning.

4. Minimizes Dependence on Medications

Prescription sleep aids can have side effects like drowsiness, dependency, and disrupted sleep patterns. Acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free alternative that works with the body’s own healing mechanisms. For those who are looking to reduce or eliminate their use of sleep medications, acupuncture provides an effective option with minimal side effects.

Insomnia and Women: A Special Focus on Menopause

Insomnia is particularly prevalent among women, especially during menopause. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the body's circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night. Hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes can further exacerbate sleep problems.

For women going through menopause, acupuncture offers a targeted approach to improving sleep. By regulating hormones, reducing hot flashes, and calming the mind, acupuncture can significantly improve sleep quality during this transitional phase of life.

Why Work with a Licensed Acupuncturist Specializing in Women’s Health

Working with a licensed acupuncturist who specializes in treating women's health issues, such as Herb + Ohm in Chicago, can provide even greater benefits for women suffering from insomnia, especially during menopause. These practitioners understand the unique challenges women face, particularly during hormonal transitions, and offer personalized care to address the specific symptoms impacting your sleep.

At Herb + Ohm, the team of experts blends Traditional Chinese Medicine with a deep understanding of women’s health to create individualized treatment plans. We use acupuncture along with herbal remedies and lifestyle recommendations to address the root causes of insomnia, offering a comprehensive solution for improving sleep quality. For women navigating menopause in and around Chicago, this specialized care can make a world of difference, helping you sleep better and feel more balanced during the day.

Insomnia doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. Acupuncture offers a safe, natural, and effective way to manage insomnia by addressing both the symptoms and root causes of sleep disturbances. Whether you’re dealing with stress, hormonal imbalances, or the challenges of menopause, working with a licensed acupuncturist such as those at Herb + Ohm in Chicago can help you achieve better sleep and overall well-being.

If you’re ready to explore how acupuncture can help you sleep better, contact our licensed acupuncturists who specializes in women’s health at Herb + Ohm in Chicago.