Acupuncture is the insertion of hair thin needles into the body to elicit change in qi and fluid flow, resulting in a reduction of pain and inflammation. While it is a common conception in the West to think of Acupuncture as energy work, and qi as energy, this is imperfect. The meridians are a physical structure in the body which is why a physical tool, such as a needle, can create a change. The practice of utilizing these meridians for medical benefit goes back five thousand years.
From our perspective Acupuncture is very simple. It moves qi and blood. So how does a needle inserted into foot move qi and blood in the head? Well, the needle does not have special curing power, nor is the needle physically moving fluids directly. Instead, acupuncture utilizes a powerful leverage, the physiology of the human body. There is no better medical physician than the human body, but sometimes, it could use some help. The needles are mere messengers, the acupuncturist a facilitator; reminding and suggesting dynamic flow in ways that the body has forgotten, that are or were obstructed. As is typical for reminders, the message has to be consistent, especially when conversing with stubborn issues. In practice this means a higher frequency of acupuncture therapy is often required in the beginning so the body can better absorb the message.
In Western Medical terms acupuncture can reduce inflammation, pain, stimulate lymphatic circulation, alter bio-chemical interactions and nerve response. But ask the sages of old and they would say:
“Bu tong zi tong; tong zi bu tong”
“No movement, there is pain; movement, no pain”
Acupuncture moves qi and blood. By creating movement where there was stagnation, health can begin to be restored. Read more about the description of acupuncture and meridians by the sages.