Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical procedures in the world. It had its origins in Tibet, more than 2500 years ago. Acupuncture can be used to treat a broad range of conditions and is a treatment which encourages the patient's body to heal itself.

During acupuncture, the nerves in the skin and muscles are stimulated by the penetration of thin needles at anatomic points also known as acupuncture points which produce a wide variety of effects. It causes the body to increase the release of natural pain mediators. These natural pain mediators, endorphin and enkaphalin, are released in the pain pathway of the brain and the spinal cord causing the pain signals which are received to be reduced.

There are two common terms in the traditional Chinese medicine system. They are yin and yang. Yin is thought to be the cold, passive or female principle and yang is thought to be the hot, active or male principle. They are two opposite forces. A state of harmony is said to be achieved when these two opposing forces are in balance. If there is an imbalance of the two, the flow of vital energy or chi is blocked and it is believed that disease and all other ailments come about as a result of this imbalance. Acupuncture can restore this imbalance of energy.

Stimulation of the immune system is said to be brought about by acupuncture. It also has an effect on the release of various hormones that take part in helping the body to react to injury and stress.