Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders worldwide, affecting both physical and mental health. Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking unrefreshed can significantly impact daily functioning, mood, concentration, and long-term wellbeing. While many people turn to sleeping pills or supplements, these solutions often come with side effects or fail to address the underlying cause.
Acupuncture at Back to Basics Chiropractic in Kogarah offers a natural and holistic approach to insomnia. Rather than simply inducing sleep, acupuncture works to restore balance in the body, calm the nervous system, and improve the quality and consistency of sleep over time.
Understanding Insomnia
Insomnia can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than three months). Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking frequently during the night
- Early morning waking
- Non-restorative sleep
- Daytime fatigue or brain fog
Common causes of insomnia include stress, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, digestive issues, irregular sleep schedules, and overactivity of the nervous system. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, insomnia is not a standalone condition but a sign of imbalance within the body.
How Acupuncture Views Insomnia
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, sleep is governed by the balance of Yin and Yang, as well as the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood. Insomnia may occur when:
- The mind (Shen) is overstimulated
- Yin energy is deficient
- Heat accumulates in the body
- The Liver, Heart, Spleen, or Kidney systems are out of balance
For example:
- Stress-related insomnia is often linked to Liver Qi stagnation
- Anxiety or racing thoughts may be associated with Heart imbalance
- Night sweats and waking between 1–3am can indicate Yin deficiency
Acupuncture aims to correct these imbalances rather than suppress symptoms.
How Acupuncture Helps Improve Sleep
- Calms the Nervous System
One of the most well-documented effects of acupuncture is its ability to regulate the autonomic nervous system. Insomnia is often linked to an overactive “fight or flight” response (sympathetic nervous system).
Acupuncture helps shift the body into a “rest and digest” state (parasympathetic nervous system), promoting relaxation, lowering heart rate, and preparing the body for sleep.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety are major contributors to insomnia. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin—chemicals that promote calmness and emotional wellbeing.
Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed during and after treatment, with reduced mental chatter at bedtime.
- Improves Sleep Quality and Duration
Unlike sleep medications that may sedate without restoring healthy sleep cycles, acupuncture works to improve sleep architecture, including deeper and more restorative stages of sleep.
Regular acupuncture treatments may help:
- Fall asleep faster
- Reduce night-time waking
- Improve sleep depth
- Wake feeling more refreshed
- Addresses Underlying Causes
Acupuncture is particularly effective because it treats the root cause of insomnia, not just the symptom. This is especially beneficial for people whose sleep problems are linked to:
- Chronic pain
- Digestive issues
- Hormonal changes (including menopause)
- Fatigue or burnout
- Emotional stress
By improving overall body balance, sleep naturally improves as a secondary benefit.
- Regulates Hormones and Circadian Rhythm
Acupuncture can help regulate melatonin production and support the body’s natural circadian rhythm. This is particularly helpful for shift workers, frequent travellers, or those with irregular sleep schedules.
From a TCM perspective, acupuncture supports Kidney Yin and Blood—essential elements for restful, uninterrupted sleep.
What Happens During Acupuncture for Insomnia?
During your initial consultation at Back to Basics Chiropractic in Kogarah, the acupuncturist will take a detailed health history, including sleep patterns, stress levels, digestion, energy, and emotional well-being. Diagnosis may also include tongue and pulse assessment.
Very fine, sterile needles are placed at specific points on the body—commonly on the wrists, ankles, legs, abdomen, ears, and scalp. The treatment is generally painless and deeply relaxing, with many people drifting into a light sleep during the session.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
The number of sessions depends on the severity and duration of insomnia:
- Acute insomnia: 3–6 sessions
- Chronic insomnia: 8–12 sessions or ongoing care
Many patients notice improvements within the first few treatments, particularly in relaxation and ease of falling asleep.
Acupuncture vs Sleeping Medication
| Acupuncture | Sleeping Pills |
| Treats root cause | Masks symptoms |
| No dependency | Risk of dependence |
| Improves overall health | Possible side effects |
| Long-term solution | Short-term relief |
Acupuncture can also be safely combined with other treatments such as lifestyle changes, mindfulness, and sleep hygiene practices.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Insomnia?
Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe with minimal side effects. Some people may experience mild fatigue or relaxation after treatment, which usually resolves quickly.
Who Can Benefit Most?
Acupuncture is suitable for:
- Adults with chronic insomnia
- Stress-related sleep issues
- Menopause-related sleep disturbance
- Anxiety-associated insomnia
- People seeking natural alternatives to medication
Insomnia can have a profound impact on quality of life, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent struggle. Acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free approach that supports both sleep and overall wellbeing. By calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and restoring internal balance, acupuncture helps the body relearn how to sleep—naturally and deeply.
If you’re looking for a holistic and sustainable solution for better sleep, acupuncture may be the missing piece in your insomnia treatment plan. Book your appointment online today!
Ready for a better night’s sleep?
If you’re experiencing insomnia, our Acupuncturist at Back to Basics Chiropractic is here to help. Book your appointment today and start your journey toward a better night’s sleep.
Acupuncture for Insomnia in Kogarah
Can acupuncture really help insomnia?
Yes. Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. At Back To Basics Chiropractic in Kogarah, acupuncture is used to address the underlying causes of insomnia rather than just masking symptoms.
How does acupuncture help with sleep problems?
Acupuncture works by calming the nervous system, reducing stress hormones, improving circulation, and supporting hormonal balance. This helps the body move into a relaxed state that is more conducive to falling and staying asleep.
How many acupuncture sessions will I need for insomnia?
This depends on how long you’ve had insomnia and what’s contributing to it. Acute insomnia may improve within 3–6 sessions, while chronic insomnia often requires 8–12 sessions or ongoing care.
Is acupuncture safe for insomnia?
Yes. Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. Most people experience deep relaxation during treatment, with minimal side effects such as mild tiredness afterward.
Can acupuncture help insomnia caused by stress or anxiety?
Absolutely. Stress and anxiety are common causes of insomnia. Acupuncture helps calm the mind, reduce cortisol levels, and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Will acupuncture help if I wake up during the night?
Yes. Acupuncture can be particularly effective for night waking, especially when related to stress, hormonal imbalance, or overactivity of the nervous system.
Can acupuncture replace sleeping medication?
Many patients use acupuncture as a natural alternative to sleeping tablets. Others use it alongside medication with the goal of reducing reliance over time. Always consult your GP before changing medication.
Do I need a referral to get acupuncture at Back To Basics Chiropractic?
No referral is required. You can book directly with Back To Basics Chiropractic in Kogarah for acupuncture treatment.
Is acupuncture suitable for long-term insomnia?
Yes. Acupuncture is especially beneficial for chronic insomnia because it addresses underlying imbalances and supports long-term improvements in sleep quality.
