Shen Nung, suggested that the body has energy forces running within it, and he called the energy force Chee. Chee contains all essential activities of life, including physical, spiritual, emotional and mental. This theory states that there are 12 (Meridians) energy channels running through each half of the body and 2 run along the body’s midline; 1 front and the other along the back. These channels relate to all the internal organs of the body and the gate of life, and run along the body, from head to toe. There are many Acupuncture sites or points located on these channels and are at specific locations where the Meridians, come to the surface of the skin, where they are accessible to needling and Acupressure. The connections between them ensure that there is an even circulation of Chee, or a balance between the Yin and Yang. Chee is comprised of two parts, Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang are opposing forces, that when balanced, work together. When the balance is upset it results in disease.

It is well documented that Acupuncture can help in the treatment of pain, both acute and chronic. Scientists do not know with certainty how Acupuncture works, but there are several theories. The Endorphin Theory states that needle manipulation, stimulates the release of endorphins and enkephalins. These are natural body chemicals involved in the inhibition of nociceptive impulses and relieve of pain. The Circulatory Theory states that Acupuncture has an effect of either constricting or dilating blood vessels, perhaps with release of substances such as Histamine. The Neurotransmitter Theory believes that the level of Seratonin and Noradrenaline and other neurotransmitters are affected by Acupuncture. Another popular theory is the Gate Control Theory, which proposes a balance of input by large A-beta and small A-delta and C fibers in the central nervous system. According to this theory, large fiber input inhibits, while small fiber input facilitates, the spinal cord transmission of afferent (incoming) pain impulses. The first gates to close would be the smallest ones, the A-delta and C fibers, and theoretically these are the gates that close during Acupuncture.

Acupuncture has been used in the treatment of many diseases and for analgesia and surgery. It has been used with varying degrees of success in the treatment of addiction to alcohol and hard drugs, as well as the treatment of anxiety disorders and depression. In the United States and Europe the most common ailments being treated with Acupuncture are: Headaches of all kinds; Lower Back Pain, Spondylosis and Spondylitis, Cervical Spondylosis, Condylitis, various Arthritic conditions and muscle spasm. 

Acupuncture has been used in China, for thousands of years. It is becoming more accepted in Europe and the United States and is in higher demand in this part of the world now than it has ever been. There is no question about Acupuncture being an acceptable treatment modality in conjunction with more traditional western medicine.