Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of thin, disposable and sterile needles at strategic points on your body. Electrical impulses are sent back to the brain to stimulate a response from the central nervous system (CNS). The stimulation of the CNS causes a release of natural pain relieving and anti-inflammatory substances. This activates the body’s natural repair mode so that it can better heal itself by reducing pain, inflammation and even stress.

Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as chi or qi (chee) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance. It is also believed in more westernized practice, that the needles will stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue, therefore boosting your body’s natural painkillers.