How Does Acupuncture Work?

How does Acupuncture work?

 Acupuncture is based on the movement of Qi (pronounced "chee").  Qi is the energy force in a person’s body that flows along channels to all organs of the body and facilitates them in healthy functioning.  Qi is the life force inside of you, the spiritual energy, and it is what gives you vitality. According to theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are invisible channels through which qi circulates throughout the body, called meridians.  When the Qi in the body is plentiful and free flowing, the body is balanced and healthy.  If Qi is obstructed or weakened, symptoms arise as an expression of the imbalance.  If the underlying problem is not attended to, illness may begin to affect the body, whether physically, mentally, or emotionally.An imbalance in a person's body can result from inappropriate emotional responses such as: excess anger, over-excitement, self-pity, deep grief and fear. Environmental factors such as cold, damp/humidity, wind, dryness, and heat can also cause imbalance in the body, as well as unhealthy diet, too much sex, overwork and too much exercise.

It is the body’ natural inclination to self-correct imbalances in Qi, and maintain homeostasis, so that recovery from illness will be achieved in due time.  Symptoms that persist, however, are a sign of an imbalance on a deeper level.  Acupuncture looks to the fundamental disharmony and focuses treatment on both the origin and the symptoms brought on by the imbalance.

There are approximately 360 points that Acupuncturists use to influence Qi. Historically, acupuncture points were believed to be holes that allow entry into channels. These holes provide gateways to influence, redirect, increase, or decrease body's vital substance, qi, thus correcting many of the imbalances.To re-establish the balance, the acupuncturist stimulates the acupuncture points that will counteract that imbalance. This is done with the use of very fine needles, moxabustion, pressure, and magnets. In this way, acupuncture can effectively rebalance the energy system and restore health or prevent the development of disease.When performed by a properly trained and licensed practitioner, Acupuncture is safe and effective, and free from adverse or addictive side effects.