Shen Nung theorized that the body had a distinct energy force running through it.  The energy force was later called Qi (Chi) and through hundreds of years of observation the path that Qi takes through the body was found to run in very distinct pathways in the body known as meridians.  These meridians run vertically up and down the body on both sides.  There are twelve paired organ meridians and two unpaired midline meridians.  The acupuncture points are very specific points on the body where the meridians come close to the surface of the skin and become accessible.

The flow of Qi through the body affects all aspects of health including the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical.  When these pathways become obstructed, weak or excessive disease can occur.  The flow of Qi can be influenced by acupuncture, acupressure, or a technique called moxibustion.  Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles into the skin, whereas acupressure is a non-invasive method of massage therapy where pressure is applied to specific acupuncture points.  Moxibustion is adding heat produced by burning specific herbs to either a bare point or a needled point.

Acupuncture may be particularly beneficial when combined with other physical therapies such as massage therapy, cranial sacral therapy, naturopathic or osteopathic manipulation, and herbal medicine.  Acupuncture can also be combined with conventional medical therapies to complement and increase the effectiveness and/or minimize side effects.  There are many diseases that can be treated successfully by Acupuncture or its related treatments. The most common ailments currently being treated include the following: