The techniques of treating insomnia with Neiguan acupuncture mainly involve acupoint location, operation methods, selection of acupoints and precautions, etc. The following is a detailed explanation:

Acupoint location

The Neiguan acupoint is located in the anterior area of the forearm, 2 cun above the distal transverse crease on the palmar side of the wrist, between the palmar longus tendon and the flexor carpi radialis tendon. Accurately locating acupoints is the basis of acupuncture treatment.

Operation method

The depth of acupuncture: Generally, the depth of acupuncture is about 0.5 inches. The intensity of stimulation should not be too high; it is sufficient to achieve the desired effect. When qi is released, the pricking area may experience sensations such as soreness, numbness, distension and heaviness. Sometimes, it may also be transmitted along the meridians.

Needle retention time: The needle should be retained for 30 to 40 minutes, during which 1 to 2 injections can be performed. Needling refers to the process where, during the retention of needles, doctors enhance the sensation of needling through techniques such as lifting, inserting, and twisting, in order to improve the therapeutic effect.

Operation method: The method of tonifying and purging moderately can be adopted. For those who have been ill for a long time and are physically weak, the tonifying method can be used. The method of moderate tonification and moderate catharsis refers to evenly lifting, inserting and twisting the needle after obtaining qi, until the feeling of obtaining qi is moderate. The tonic method refers to the application of gentle stimulation, slow frequency and short duration after obtaining qi through the needle insertion, so as to make the sensation under the needle soft and slow.

Selection of acupoints

Select acupoints based on the type of insomnia syndrome

Deficiency of both heart and spleen type: It is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or easy awakening after sleep. Acupoints such as Xinshu, Pishu, Shenmen, and Sanyinjiao can be selected. The Heart Shu and Spleen Shu points are the back-shu points of the heart and spleen respectively, which can regulate the functions of the heart and spleen. Shenmen is the original point of the Heart Meridian and can calm the mind and soothe the spirit. Sanyinjiao is the point where the three Yin meridians of the foot meet. It can strengthen the spleen and benefit the kidneys.

Yin deficiency and hyperactivity of internal heat type: It is characterized by waking up after a short sleep, hot palms and soles, palpitations, etc. Acupoints such as Taixi, Daling, Shenmen and Taichong can be selected. Taixi is the original point of the Kidney Meridian and can nourish Yin and tonify the kidney. Daling is the original point of the Pericardium Meridian and can clear the heart and relieve internal heat. The divine gate calms the mind and soothes the spirit. Taichong is the original point of the liver meridian and can soothe the liver and regulate qi.

Liver fire ascending disturbance type: It is characterized by dizziness, headache, inability to sleep, irritability and anger, etc. Acupoints such as Xingjian, Foot orifice Yin, Fengchi and Shenmen can be selected. The Yin between the lines and at the foot orifices can clear and purge liver fire. Fengchi is the intersection point of the Gallbladder Meridian of Foot Shaoyang and the Yangwei Meridian, and it can dispel wind and clear heat. The divine gate calms the mind and soothes the spirit.

Combining with other acupoints can enhance therapeutic effects: Neiguan acupoint is often combined with Shenmen acupoint. When used together, they can enhance the effect of calming the mind and soothing the spirit. It can also be combined with the Baihui point, which is located at the midpoint of the line connecting the tips of the two ears on the head. It has the effects of tonifying qi, lifting sunken areas, and raising Yang to prevent collapse. When combined with the Neiguan point, it can assist in the treatment of insomnia.

Precautions

Professional operation: Acupuncture treatment for insomnia should be performed by professional acupuncturists. Non-professionals should not attempt it easily to avoid adverse consequences.

Treatment time: Instruct the patient to come for treatment in the afternoon as much as possible. For those who have difficulty falling asleep, instruct them to cancel their lunch break.

Course arrangement: 10 days constitute one course of treatment. Rest for 3 to 4 days and then proceed to the next course. A total of more than 6 courses of treatment will be carried out. As the patient’s sleep quality continues to improve, instruct the patient to gradually reduce the dosage and frequency of taking hypnotic drugs until they completely quit or reduce the dosage to the minimum.