Acupuncture is part of an ancient system of healing called Chinese Medicine that has been practiced for over thousands of years.  Acupuncture points are found along 14 major Meridian pathways that course through the human body, extending through hands, arms, legs, feet, torso and head.  Through these meridians flows Qi (pronounced chee), which is our "life force" or "vital energy".  Acupuncture needles are inserted into specific acupoints to stimulate the Qi in order to address the condition or "pattern" being treated.  Each acupuncture treatment is specifically tailored to the individual to best meet the exact needs of the patient. 

The body is at an optimum state of health when the Qi can flow properly to all cells in the body via the 14 major  meridians.  In some cases, a person's Qi is too weak and deficient to properly nourish all areas of the body, causing physical or emotional symptoms.  Acupuncture is used to boost and restore the body's Qi or vital energy in order to alleviate the illness.  In other cases, the Qi can become stagnant and blockages arise, causing pain and discomfort.  Techniques are used to eliminate the blockages and allow the Qi to flow smoothly.  In both cases, acupuncture is done to enable the Qi to flow properly, assisting the body back into balance so it can maintain a state of health. 

Each patient's pattern of illness and optimal state of health are different and
the acupuncturist uses diagnostic tools to figure out the individual's unique
needs and treats accordingly.  Needling is gentle and generally only felt mildly
or not at all.  Adjunctive therapies such as herbs, yoga, massage, gua sha, cupping, electroacupuncture, moxabustion, auricular acupuncture, nutritional
and dietary counseling are often used.