Short answer, acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into the body for therapeutic effect.
How does it work?
From a western perspective, the needles create an inflammatory response in the body which helps the body to pay attention to the site of the needles’ insertion. There is also some interesting research being done about how acupuncture can change an individual’s neurological map. If you are curious about deeper research, I recommend PubMed. You can also take a look through our recent article archive for more information.
From an eastern perspective, your whole body is like a map, and the acupuncture points give it input as to how to balance itself by moving vital substances like qi, blood, yin, and yang; by dispelling pathogens, and by directing your body’s qi through your meridians.