Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is a Chinese method of pain relief by inserting small needles at precise points on the body. 

Theory of Yin and Yang

According to traditional Chinese medicine, Yin and Yang are tow forces within the body. They are in a constant state of dynamic balance. When this balance is threatened disease is possible. Yin represents stillness where as; Yang represents activity and Qi (chee). Qi can be described as energy, vital force, or life force. Qi travels through our body in channels or meridians reaching every aspect of the body. It can be said that, at birth there is a tank full of Qi; when the tank of Qi is empty, the life force ends and death occurs.

According to Chinese medicine if there is free flow of Qi, there is no pain; if there is no free flow, there is pain. If the Qi stagnates in the channel(s) in the region of the lower back, there will be back pain. The basic concept of acupuncture is to re-establish the circulation of Qi.
Qi can stagnate due to trauma (lifting, repetitive strain, accident), exposure to wind, cold, dampness. There can also be insufficiency of Qi, creating sluggishness or stagnation of flow throughout the channel(s).
Acupuncture re-establishes proper flow of Qi through the channel(s). Flow of Qi through the channel(s). Flow of Qi increases circulation, allowing oxygen, blood and lymph to support the healing process of the body. Research has shown acupuncture to cause the release of neuro-chemicals such as endorphins, enkephalins, serotonin, and corticosteroids all of which contribute to the reduction of pain and inflammation.

During acupuncture, thin, pre-sterilised, disposable needles are inserted at various points on the body, according to the individual diagnosis, and are left for appr4oximately 20-40 minutes. The needles are extremely fine and therefore there is hardly any pain. During this time, most people experience a deep sense of relaxation because of the endorphins that are released. Depending on whether the pain is acute or chronic, the number of acupuncture sessions is decided. The pain may be resolved in a few sittings or it may take several courses. 
If the channels have been blocked for a long period of time, or if there is pronounced deficiency of Qi, it is necessary to have acupuncture for a longer period of time to assist the body in regaining its normal function.