Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Different Types of Sleep Therapy?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Sleep therapy involves treatment for various types of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea and insomnia. Sleep rehabilitation often involves behavioral therapy in conjunction with the use of prescription medications. Depending upon the severity of the sleep disorder, medical devices may help reduce symptoms. In some cases, dental problems interfere with a person's sleep, and physical therapy to correct abnormalities may improve the situation. When sleep apnea is caused by obesity, participation in a weight-loss program that includes counseling may be recommended.

Many patients with a condition known as sleep apnea experience breathing difficulties that may interrupt sleep. Sleep apnea often causes a lapse in breathing that may jolt the person awake in an effort to catch his breath. Those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea may benefit from the use of prescription medications.

A lack of physical activity during the day can cause sleep problems at night.
A lack of physical activity during the day can cause sleep problems at night.

A sleep specialist may also recommend breathing techniques, targeted to open the airways. In addition, people with obstructed airways may use specially designed devices as part of the therapy. Some devices are oral contraptions, while others fit around the chest and are worn like a belt.

Alternative sleep therapy may involve holistic treatment with herbal supplements. In addition, alternative sleep therapy may include conforming to an organic diet, and reducing one's sugar intake. Herbs known to reduce anxiety may help promote better sleep and are often used in sleep therapy programs.

Watching TV late at night can contribute to insomnia.
Watching TV late at night can contribute to insomnia.

Valerian root is often used for sleep rehabilitation. This herbal supplement may cause adverse reactions in some patients, such as excessive drowsiness, jaundice or abdominal discomfort. People who suffer from side effects after using valerian root may benefit from the use of chamomile as an alternative. Chamomile tea is known to have a calming effect, making it beneficial for sleep therapy. This herb is considered safer than valerian root, although anyone with hay fever should avoid using chamomile.

A person with insomnia may consider trying sleep therapy.
A person with insomnia may consider trying sleep therapy.

Acupuncture is sometimes used as a form of sleep therapy. Acupuncture should be performed by a licensed physician who specializes in this type of treatment. Techniques may vary somewhat, but acupuncture for sleep disorders will typically involve the insertion of very fine needles into a specific location or pressure point. The effectiveness of acupuncture for sleep disorders has yet to be determined.

A safe method of sleep therapy that may be beneficial for some is deep meditation. Meditation therapy often involves listening to relaxation or mood music. In many cases, a sound machine that produces white noise may also promote better sleep.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A lack of physical activity during the day can cause sleep problems at night.
      A lack of physical activity during the day can cause sleep problems at night.
    • Watching TV late at night can contribute to insomnia.
      By: Fenton
      Watching TV late at night can contribute to insomnia.
    • A person with insomnia may consider trying sleep therapy.
      By: Dan Race
      A person with insomnia may consider trying sleep therapy.
    • Sleep studies are often used to develop effective regimens for treating sleep disorders.
      By: Sanjay Deva
      Sleep studies are often used to develop effective regimens for treating sleep disorders.
    • Valerian root is an effective herbal treatment for insomnia.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Valerian root is an effective herbal treatment for insomnia.
    • Chamomile tea has been used for centuries for its calming and anti-insomnia effects.
      By: lily
      Chamomile tea has been used for centuries for its calming and anti-insomnia effects.
    • Some people find that reading a book prior to bed time helps them to fall asleep.
      By: Antonioguillem
      Some people find that reading a book prior to bed time helps them to fall asleep.