Techniques

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a procedure originating in China that involves insertion and manipulation of very fine needles into strategic meridian points to manage illness and pain. It can also involve herbal remedies and changes to diet and nutrition.

When needles are used, they are inserted in points along meridians where qi flows. Qi, ( pronounced “key”), can best be defined as energy or the flow of energy. The literal translation is “air or breath”. Some refer to qi as the breath of life. Chinese medicine sees physical problems as a result of qi being out of balance; needles, herbs and dietary changes are used to restore that balance.

Needles used in acupuncture are typically disposable. They are much thinner than needles used for medical injection (shots), typically resulting in little to no pain in the process. Due to the needle size and where they are inserted, most people only feel a slight twinge or nothing at all.

Acupuncture is used to treat a variety of problems, ranging from knee pain to thyroid problems. Some have used it for back pain, labor and quitting smoking. Acupuncture has greatly increased in popularity in the West, and even Harvard Medical School offers courses for physicians.