Acupuncturists put fine, sterile needles just under the skin into meridians (energy channels) in the body.

Each meridian has many acupuncture points along its path.

How acupuncture works is based on the theory that the placement of needles into certain points of the body unblocks and moves Qi (energy) to strengthen vital force and reduce physical and emotional symptoms.

The exact mechanism of acupuncture remains largely unclear.

However, evidence indicates that needles may stimulate nerves to release the body’s own natural chemicals, which help reduce pain or regulate the brain and other functions.