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Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles to points just below the surface of the skin in order to influence the physiological functioning of the body.  The first written record of acupuncture is found in the 4700 year old “Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine”.  This is said to be the oldest medical text in the world.  It is said to have been written down from much earlier theories and practices which predate any written record.  One of the earliest examples is the famous European “ice man” who lived over 10,000 years ago and was not only found with tattoos over acupuncture points but also with herbal medicines in his pack. 

Early acupuncture theories theorized that the body has an energy force running through it.  This energy force is known as “Qi” This qi flows along meridians through out the body.  Along these meridians are the acupuncture points, these points are where the qi flow c

omes closer to the surface of the body and are thus easily accessible by “needling”.  The qi is constantly flowing along these pathways.  When the pathways become obstructed, deficient, excessive or just unbalanced, yin and yang are said to be thrown out of balance.  This causes illness and acupuncture is utilized to restore this balance. 

The needles used are generally one quarter to one fifth of a millimeter in diameter and range in length from one half inch to over three inches.  Today most needles are disposable.  The insertion of these needles will cause a sensation, which is not pain.

Acupuncture has several effects on living systems.  Acupuncture has been shown to raise levels of triglycerides, hormones, prostaglandins, white blood cells, gamma globulins, and other anti-bodies.  Acupuncture has been shown to stimulate the secretion of endorphins in the body as well.  These are the body’s natural pain killers.  Seratonin and maradrenaline levels are regulated by acupuncture as well.  Acupuncture can either dilate or constrict blood vessels, thus regulating circulation.  Acupuncture also has a regulatory effect on the nervous system which helps to modulate the body’s perception of pain.  There are many common diseases which can be helped through the use of acupuncture.  Some of these include: lower back ache, arthritis, headaches, allergies, muscle spasms and all types of pain, anxiety, and digestive problems to name a few.