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Alternative Insomnia Treatments: Electro-Acupuncture

From Antigone Arthur, for About.com

Updated: January 8, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD

Definition: Electro-Acupuncture or "electric" acupuncture as defined by some, is a form of natural therapy much like traditional acupuncture. Electro-Acupuncture involves the use of a pulsing electric current a health provider applies to acupuncture needles placed on stimulating regions of the body. Originally founded in China, this technique involves placing an acupuncture needle in one or more places to help cure insomnia, and then applying a small electrode device to the acupuncture needle which sends a tiny current of electric stimulation to the acupuncture point(s).

One of the benefits of electro-acupuncture is that it often reduces treatment time and fosters better outcomes than traditional acupuncture alone.

Also Known As: electric-acupuncture, Electro-acupuncture, electro-Acupuncture, Electric Acupuncture
Examples: The doctor applied electro-acupuncture to help stimulate Qi (pronounced chee), or the flow of energy in the body, allowing for better quality sleep at night.

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