What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world.  Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, acupuncture began to become better known in the United States in 1971 when New York Time reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery.  It has become accepted as an integrative option in health care in the United States.  The practice involves placing hair-thin needles into areas of the skin.  It is believed that these needles stimulate the movement of energy called Qi (pronounced chee).  Acupuncture is used to balance the energy in the body to stimulate the body's natural ability to heal.