What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a network meta-analysis of 83 studies involving 6,100 patients to compare the effectiveness and safety of various external therapies for insomnia.
What They Found
The analysis of 83 studies, which included 6,100 patients and 9 different external therapies, showed that most external therapies improved sleep quality more than conventional medicine and sham interventions, except for one specific sleep outcome (SL). These therapies also proved better than sham interventions at improving patients' psychological state and regulating neurotransmitters. Tuina therapy appeared to be the most effective for overall improvement, Pittsburgh sleep quality index scores, and the SL outcome.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients experiencing insomnia, this research suggests that various external therapies could offer effective alternatives or additions to current treatments for improving sleep quality and mental well-being. Patients might consider discussing options like Tuina or other external therapies with their healthcare providers, especially if conventional approaches have not been fully effective.
Canadian Relevance
The study was not conducted by Canadian authors or in Canada. Insomnia is not a Health Canada-recognized indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
Study Limitations
The study's findings are based on a synthesis of existing research, and the optimal treatment strategy among external therapies for insomnia still requires further clarification.