What is Acupuncture? 

Acupuncture is one component of Traditional Chinese Medicine which aims to balance energy in the body in order to keep it functional and healthy. It is a therapeutic method used to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain and improve the function of the affected areas of the body. Acupuncture is safe and effective; it involves the insertion of very fine needles through the skin and tissues at specific points of the body. When combined with the knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, modern therapists can use acupuncture effectively.

How does Acupuncture work?

Acupuncture stimulates the body to produce its own pain relieving chemicals called endorphins. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture stimulates the body's natural healing abilities, reducing inflammation, and promoting physical and emotional well being.

Are there any adverse effects or risks to the treatment?

One of the most striking aspects of acupuncture is the almost complete absence of adverse effects and complications from its use. Most patients find that the treatments are relaxing and cause minimal discomfort. 80-90% percent of patients respond well to acupuncture with noticeable improvement. Acupuncture can be used as the only form of therapy or it may be combined successfully with other forms of medical or physical therapy.

Cited from the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute