Acupuncture Reduces Sleep Disturbances Significantly
April 2016 | by Jonathon Gilbert
Obstetrics and Gynecology or ‘The Green Journal’ as it is commonly known, is considered by Ob/Gyn’s to be the best source of new information and studies within their profession. In the March edition, there was a review article entitled “Acupuncture to Reduce Sleep Disturbances in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.” This type of article looks at all previous studies and assesses their value. It is considered the highest form of medical research.
What is of interest is the conclusion to this study. I shall quote from the abstract:
“CONCLUSION: Acupuncture is associated with a significant reduction in sleep disturbances in women experiencing menopause-related sleep disturbances. Our findings suggest that acupuncture should be adopted as part of a multimodal approach for improving sleep disturbances in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.”
It is amazing that as little as 10 years ago this conclusion may not have been possible. Thankfully, there are now enough good quality research studies to allow for a rational and critical review of the subject. And with this, the stigma of acupuncture being quackery is fading. It is wonderful news for all of us, both patient and practitioner. ♥

Reference
Acupuncture to Reduce Sleep Disturbances in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. By Chiu HY, Hsieh YJ, Tsai PS.
Obstet Gynecol. 2016 Mar;127(3):507-15. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000001268.
PMID: 26855097
About the Author Acupuncturist
Jonathan Gilbert is a recognized expert in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He is certified in both acupuncture and Chinese herbology and has completed extensive post graduate training as well as a traditional apprenticeship. Read more of Mr. Gilbert’s credentials and written works.
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Blog text is Copyright ©The Gilbert Clinic, Inc., 2016. Excerpts and links are allowed with credit and direction to original content. For full text reprint permission or a medical consultation with Jonathan Gilbert, contact us at (301) 215-4177 or info@thegilbertclinic.com. Magnifying glass image ©Pixelbliss / Adobe Stock.
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