Acupuncture is the systematic use of needles as therapeutic devices to stimulate points on people's bodies, with the goal of helping them feel better.
Acupuncture is just one of the treatment modalities of Chinese medicine.
Acupuncture theory is a part of Chinese medicine theory, but there is much more to Chinese medicine than acupuncture. These modalities are often used in tandem and are applied according to the same types of theory. Herbal medicine is the focus of Chinese medicine throughout most of Asia, including China, Korea and Vietnam, since it is the most widely applicable modality. Yes, when performed by a skilled practitioner. There is much more to acupuncture than just sticking needles in people, just as Western medicine is more than simply taking a pill.