Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medical therapy in the world. Originating in China more than two thousand years ago, it is a highly systematic and effective treatment. There continues to be research that shows the benefits of acupuncture in treating a wide range of conditions, both acute and chronic.

Acupuncture is used widely around the world, Japan, Korea, France, Germany and other parts of Europe, and North America. Each country or region may develop variations on their techniques but the system of meridians and point locations remains constant.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, there are more than two thousand acupuncture points on the body. These points connect with 12 main and 8 secondary pathways called meridians. And through these meridians, energy or "qi" (pronounced "chee") flows. The insertion of fine needles into specific acupuncture points influence the flow of qi.

Qi is believed to regulate spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical balance. Qi is influenced by the opposing forces of yin and yang. According to traditional Chinese medicine, when yin and yang are balanced, they work together with the natural flow of qi to help the body achieve and maintain health. Therefore, in disease the flow of qi is blocked and yin and yang is out of balance. Acupuncture is believed to balance yin and yang, keep the normal flow of energy unblocked, and maintain or restore health to the body and mind.

Traditional Chinese medicine treatments (including acupuncture, herbs, diet, massage, and meditative physical exercise such as qi-gong) all are intended to improve the flow of qi.

In order to satisfy the need to fit a scientific model, several theories are available to explain acupuncture's effects. Acupuncture points are believed to stimulate the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals either change the experience of pain and sensation or release other chemicals, such as hormones, that influence the body's self-regulating systems. The biochemical changes may stimulate the body's natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being.