Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the primary methods of treatment used in Chinese medicine. The practice is ancient in its origins and is based upon a perception of the mind/body system as governed by a subtle energy called qi. Health consists of the proper production and distribution of qi, and the practice of acupuncture is designed to encourage or restore this condition.

Treatment involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin at points known to govern the qi. The selection of the particular points is made based on the practitioner's diagnosis of the patient and understanding of the human energy system.

Although in the West it is often thought of primarily as a treatment for pain, the World Health Organization lists over 100 conditions that may be effectively treated with acupuncture.

James C. Nourse, Ph.D., L. Ac.