Acupuncture can help Sleep Apnea.

In a recent study, Acupuncture techniques were used to determine if Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can be affected.

The results showed that acupuncture had immediate effects in reducing night time respiratory events, including sleep disruptions, and oxygen de-saturation (low oxygen levels in the blood). The researchers believe the beneficial results are ude to acupuncture’s effects on serotonergic pathways and also acupuncture’s anti-inflammatory effects. Both manual acupuncture and 10Hz electro-acupuncture techniques were found effective.

Classical acupuncture points and techniques were used including Lu6, Lu7, LI4, LI20, GV20, CV23, St36, St40, Sp6, K6, and extra point Shanglianquan (located near the hyoid bone). Electro-acupuncture was applied to the neck points CV23 and Shanglianquan and a separate pair were connected to LI4 and St36. Electro-acupuncture stimulation had wave pulses of 0.45 ms2 at 10Hz and increased to an intensity of between 0.6 - 0.8 mA which produced a mild twitch. The manual acupuncture group receive manual stimulation to the needle until deqi (sensation of heaviness or numbness) was achieved at each acupuncture point. The needles were retained for 30 minutes.

Fore more information on OSA and how to obtain treatments contact the our Glendale Wellness Center.