Can tiny ear needles cure sleepless nights? military study tests acupuncture for sleep

NCT ID NCT04956341

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Paul Crawford Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether ear acupuncture can help active-duty military members and their families sleep better. 180 people with sleep problems will receive either ear acupuncture or a sham treatment. The needles stay in for a few days or are removed after 45 minutes. Researchers will measure sleep quality, anxiety, depression, and pain.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: auricular acupuncture (ear acupuncture with ASP needles or Seirin needles)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free option to help people with sleep problems, especially those in the military.
What could go wrong: This is a single trial at one military base, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is short-term and effects may be small or no better than a placebo.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Parasomnias sleep disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SLEEP DISTURBANCE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mike O'Callaghan Military Medical Center

Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, 89191, United States

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