What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy. An acupuncturist will place extremely fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body's Qi and and promotes natural healing by enhancing the body's innate recuperative powers, immune system and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well- being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.

What Is Qi?
At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced "chee") or life force energy, flows throughout the body. Qi helps to animate the body and protect it from illness, pain and disease. A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.

Qi circulates through specific pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridian pathways throughout the body. Each is connected to specific organs. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In the same way, meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle in the body. When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys good physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. An obstruction of Qi anywhere in the body is like a dam, backing up the flow in one area and restricting it in others. This blockage can hinder the distribution of the nourishment that the body requires to function optimally and creates disharmony.

What Can Affect Qi?
Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to blockage or imbalance of Qi. Normally, when an imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced state of health and wellbeing. When the disruption of Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.