What exactly is Acupuncture and how does it work?

Acupuncture is a branch of Chinese medicine that involves inserting needles through the skin to treat various health problems. In China, it is also used for anesthesia before surgery.

Eastern practitioners believe that a vital energy called Qi (pronounced "chee") flows through the body along a variety of pathways called meridians. There are 14 major acupuncture meridians. Each of these is believed to be associated with a particular part of the body.

Traditional acupuncturists believe that the interruption, or blockage, of Qi causes disease.

To restore the flow of Qi and promote health, acupuncturists insert needles at certain body points along these meridians.

Western researchers are still trying to define in scientific terms why acupuncture works. Research suggests that acupuncture stimulates the body's nerve cells to produce natural painkillers called endorphins.