special subjects
Acupuncture
Introduction
Acupuncture, a therapy within Traditional Chinese Medicine , is one of the most widely accepted components of integrative therapies in the western world. Specific points on the body are stimulated, usually by inserting thin needles into the skin and underlying tissues. Stimulating these specific points is believed to affect the flow of qi (a universal life force) along energy pathways (meridians) and thus restore balance. The procedure is generally not painful but may cause a tingling sensation. Sometimes stimulation is increased by twisting, warming, or otherwise manipulating the needle. Acupuncture points may also be stimulated by Pressure (called acupressure) Lasers (also called low-level laser therapy) A very low voltage electrical current (called electroacupuncture) applied to the needle (See also Overview of Integrative, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine .) 