Acupuncture is a traditional asian healing technique that is at least 2,500 years old. It involves inserting needles into specific points on the body called meridian points. Manipulation of these needles, according to acupunctural teachings, is said to promote health and well-being by normalizing the balance of the opposing forces 'yin' and 'yang', the 'chi' (or Qi) energy throughout the body. Acupuncture is said to clear blockages of this energy that flows through the body.

Most people in western culture had never heard of acupuncture before President Richard Nixon's historical visit to China in 1972. This visit opened the door of East / West communications and drew back the veil on Traditional Chinese Medicine.

What Kind of Ailments can be Treated?

Acupuncture is particularly useful as a treatment against pain and nausea. Some ailments that can be treated with acupuncture are anxiety, depression, chronic pain, high blood pressure, menopause, migraines (and other types of headaches), fibromyalgia, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma. Even some addictions and rehabilitative therapy (such as stroke rehabilitation) can benefit from the positive effects of acupuncture.

Most doctors (and even some alternative health specialists) would tell you that acupuncture is safe when included as part of a comprehensive health management program. In other words, don't ignore what your doctor tells you.

As a warning, acupuncture is not recommended for all types of illnesses. Some conditions may actually increase the risk of using acupuncture, for example breast implants, drugs, pacemaker, pregnancy.