Acupuncture is the most well-known TCM treatment modality in the West, in part because of its many advantages: it provides drug-free pain relief and effectively treats a wide range of acute and chronic ailments.

 

Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to understanding normal function and disease processes and focuses as much on the prevention of illness as on its treatment.

 

Qi, and the way it affects the body, is at the core of this approach. When healthy, an abundant supply of qi (life energy) flows through the body's meridians system - a network of channels through the body. If the flow of qi in the meridians becomes blocked or there is an inadequate supply of qi, then the body is unable to maintain harmony, balance and order, and disease or illness follows. This can result from stress, overwork, poor diet, disease pathogens, weather and environmental conditions, as well as other lifestyle factors and is evident to TCM practitioners through observable signs of bodily dysfunction. TCM practitioners look for these signs of health and dysfunction, paying particular attention not only to the presenting signs and symptoms, but also to the medical history, general constitution, as well as the pulse and tongue.

 

Acupuncture works through the insertion of 

fine, sterile needles into acupoints along the body's meridians. This clears blockages and stimulates the normal flow of qi through the body.

 

As a natural form of healing, acupuncture treats the underlying causes of disease and illness as well as the symptoms, providing a holistic approach to the treatment of disease and illness and linking body, mind and emotions. It is he most efficient and natural way of maintaining general well-being and of preventing against disease and illness.