What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a treatment based on ancient Chinese medicine, dating back thousands of years. The core of Chinese medicine is rooted in the concept of qi (pronounced "chee"), a type of life force, or energy. Qi flows through energy pathways (meridians) throughout the entire body. Each meridian corresponds to one organ, or group of organs, that governs particular bodily functions. Achieving the proper flow of qi is believed to create health and wellness and harmony within the body. Qi maintains the dynamic balance of yin and yang, which are complementary opposites.

According to Chinese medicine, everything in nature has both yin and yang. An imbalance of qi (too much, too little, or blocked flow) causes disease. To restore balance to the qi, an acupuncturist inserts needles at points along the meridians. These acupuncture points are places where the energy pathway is close to the surface of the skin.