Acupuncture is an ancient Eastern technique aimed at relieving pain, treating disease and improving overall health. It involves the insertion of one or more tiny disposable needles into the skin at various depths. The traditional explanation for acupuncture’s effectiveness is that it modifies the flow of energy (known as qi or chi) throughout the body. This energy is transported by a system of channels called meridians. These meridians represent a large network of superficial and deep pathways that enable a connection between the inner and outer aspects of our bodies.

The needle insertions can stimulate the body’s production of painkilling chemicals, such as endorphins. Acupuncture stimulation acts on impulse transmission in the central nervous system, thus closing specific neurological “gates” and jamming the transmission of pain impulses from other parts of the body.