Acupuncture has a long and venerable history in China, and it is growing in popularity in the West. It can help in a very wide range of conditions and illnesses, even some which cannot be helped by orthodox medicine. In a state of health, the body is suffused with vital energy (called Qi is Chinese medicine). When one is run down or exhausted, this energy may become blocked or depleted, and there is no longer enough qi for the body to function well. At first, this gives rise to tiredness and discomfort, but if this continues for a long time, real disease may develop.

Channels, meridians, points

Qi flows along lines (called channels or meridians) all over the body. Most of these originate in the trunk, and go out along an arm or limb. The Qi concentrates at specific 'acupuncture points'. By inserting a needle at these points, the energy flow is invigorated along the whole length of the channel. This means that points can be used which are far away from the main site of the trouble. For example, headaches and eye problems may be treated by points on the feet; lung problems may be treated by points on the hands. Acupuncture works by strengthening Qi and restoring its flow. Once Qi is restored, healing starts to take place.

The Qi to Health

In a treatment, needles are inserted at various points on the body and limbs. The needles themselves are very fine (they could pass down the centre of a hypodermic needle). After insertion, they may be moved gently to produce the desired result on the energy, and then they are left in place for about 15 minutes. In many condiditons, the sensation is no more than a slight prick (although sometimes a shooting nerve-like sensation is experienced.) It is common to feel very relaxed and almost fall asleep during this period.