[Exploration of acupuncture treatment for insomnia induced by mental retardation: based on "trinity theory of , and "].

Insomnia induced by mental retardation is related to the synergistic dysfunction of ", and (the period of the day from 9 pm to 11 pm) " in pathogenesis. Based on "trinity theory of , and ", the acupoints of hand and food meridians on the head and face (Fengchi [GB 20], Sizhukong [TE 23] and Jiaosun [TE 20]) and those on the four limbs (Sanyangluo [TE 8], Zhongzhu [TE 3], Qiuxu [GB 40] and Xiaxi [GB 43]) are selected to regulate the pivot function of . Front- and back- points (Sanjiaoshu [BL 22], Danzhong [CV 17] and Tianshu [ST 5]), as well as auricular points (Gan [CO], Dan [CO] and Sanjiao [CO]) are chosen to promote circulation of and meridians. In association with the relevant knowledge of time acupuncture at , the circadian rhythm of sleep is set up and the appropriate sleep pattern is developed.