Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves stimulating specific points in the body by inserting fine needles. The Chinese believe that the needles help restore the smooth flow of qi, or energy flow, through the body. Any blockage or imbalance in qi, they believe, can result in pain and even illness. Thus, in Chinese philosophy, the application of acupuncture extends beyond pain relief to the treatment of many other ailments. There are even seasonal balancing therapies to avoid colds and the flu.
Acupuncture points lie along meridians on the body.
Each meridian is associated with specific organs. At least 365 points are described in classical Chinese texts with a possible total of more than 2000. Most acupuncturists are trained to use a small number of these points for particular ailments and insert one very fine needle at each location. To enhance the effect, the needles may be twirled, connected to a weak electric current, or heated. Of all the alternative therapies, acupuncture has been studied the most.