Acupuncture for sleep problems in Gothenburg
Acupuncture is often used for long-term sleep problems, and research suggests it can improve sleep quality for some people. It is not habit-forming and can be combined with sleep medication. At Dr. Tian Akupunktur in Eriksberg, Gothenburg, treatment depends on whether you struggle to fall asleep, wake in the night or wake too early.
The TCM view
How TCM understands sleep problems
Traditional Chinese medicine distinguishes between difficulty falling asleep, waking repeatedly and waking too early, and each points to a different pattern. Trouble falling asleep is often linked to heat and a restless mind, while waking in the night is linked to weak yin or an imbalance in the Liver.
Even the time you wake up tells Dr. Tian something, because TCM links different organ systems to different parts of the day. That is why she often asks in detail when in the night you wake.
The treatment
How treatment works
At the health consultation you map out your sleep pattern and evening routine, and whether stress, pain or hot flushes play a part. Dr. Tian also examines your pulse and tongue.
Sleep problems are often treated with calming acupuncture and ear acupuncture. With ear acupuncture, tiny seeds can stay in place between sessions so you can press the points yourself in the evening. You also get practical advice on light, food and caffeine.
Experience and research
Dr. Tian’s experience and what the research says
Dr. Tian has treated sleep problems throughout her career, in China and in Gothenburg, often together with stress, pain or menopause symptoms. She holds a PhD from the Sahlgrenska Academy and is a fourth-generation TCM practitioner.
Research suggests acupuncture can improve sleep quality in long-term insomnia. If you snore heavily, stop breathing during sleep or are very tired during the day, it may be sleep apnoea, which should be investigated by your health centre.
Expectations
What to expect
In Dr. Tian’s experience, sleep problems often respond quickly. Many patients notice a change after two to four sessions, and a typical course is six to ten sessions followed by occasional maintenance.
The first thing to change is usually how deeply you sleep, with the number of hours often following later. Some people sleep unusually heavily the night after a session. How quickly things turn around depends on how long your sleep has been disturbed and what lies behind it.
Treatments often used
Every new patient starts with a health consultation or a first visit that includes acupuncture. Dr. Tian then suggests the treatments that suit you.
Health consultation
30 minPulse and tongue diagnosis, and a treatment plan made for you.
SEK 550
BookHealth consultationAcupuncture, first visit
60 minA 30-minute health consultation followed by 30 minutes of acupuncture.
SEK 1,400
BookAcupuncture, first visitAcupuncture, follow-up
50 minSterile single-use needles placed at points chosen for your TCM diagnosis.
SEK 1,050
BookAcupuncture, follow-upEar acupuncture
45 minTiny needles or seeds on points in the outer ear.
SEK 800
BookEar acupuncture
On Saturdays a supplement of SEK 180 applies to all treatments.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have acupuncture if I take sleeping tablets?
Yes. Acupuncture can be combined with sleep medication, and many people hope to use less over time. Any reduction should always be planned with the person who prescribed it.
How many sessions before I sleep better?
It varies. In Dr. Tian’s experience, many people notice a difference after two to four sessions, often that it is easier to fall asleep or that they wake less often. After about five sessions you review progress together and adjust the plan if nothing has changed.
Will the treatment make me tired?
Yes, that is quite common. Many people get drowsy on the treatment couch and sleep more deeply the following night. Avoid planning a long drive straight after your first visit.
Conditions that often go together
- Stress and exhaustionFor long periods of stress, shallow sleep, an unsettled stomach or exhaustion.
- Menopause symptomsHot flushes, night sweats, restless sleep and mood swings during the menopause.
- Migraine and headacheMigraine, tension headache and pressure behind the eyes, treated according to where the pain sits and what sets it off.
Come in for a personal health consultation
Book 30 minutes with Dr. Tian. She listens to your concerns and examines your pulse and tongue. Together you agree on a plan: your first step towards better health.