Chronic Insomnia Helped Under Chiropractic Care

The June 3, 2024, issue of the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research published the results of a case study documenting the resolution of chronic insomnia in a patient who received chiropractic care.

The National Library of Medicine describes the requirements for chronic insomnia. "The sleep disturbances occur at least three times a week and have been present for the last 3 months." They note that "Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder in the United States affecting about one-third of the general population." They continue that insomnia "…is characterized by difficulty in either initiating sleep, maintaining sleep continuity, or poor sleep quality."

The author of this study notes that "Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among aging adults. Yet, sleep problems are not necessarily an inherent part of the aging process." She continues by stressing the importance of good sleep. "The relationship between sleep and health are crucial as adequate amounts of undisturbed sleep is an essential component to a healthy lifestyle. Undisturbed sleep contributes to optimal daytime function and wellbeing in an individual, particularly for older adults."

In this case, a 69-year-old man went to a chiropractor even though he did not have any outward symptoms. He had previously been under chiropractic care at another facility for neck pain which had resolved. He stated that he felt much better while under chiropractic and wanted to continue care on a wellness basis.

During a case history, it was discovered that the man had sleep issues. He reported that each night he would sleep for 2-3 hours, then wake for 2-3 hours, then again sleep for 2-3 hours, then finally waking for the rest of the day.

A chiropractic examination was performed which included a visual inspection, a posture analysis, both motion and static palpation, leg length symmetry measurements, and an analysis of the x-rays of his neck. The conclusion of the examination was there were subluxations present in multiple areas of the man's spine. Based on this information, specific forms of chiropractic adjustments were started.

After five chiropractic visits, the man reported that he was sleeping better, and his sleep had increased by about one hour per night. He also noted that his daily tasks seemed easier to do. After nine chiropractic visits, the man reported continual improvement in the quality of his sleep to where he could now sleep for six uninterrupted hours per night.

In the study conclusion the author states, "This case demonstrates a situation in which chiropractic care has helped a patient increase sleep quantity and quality. The decrease of symptoms within four months of care suggests a relationship between insomnia and vertebral subluxations."