In traditional Chinese medicine's theory, our body is supported by Chi ( vital energy ). The channels of energy run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy channels, called meridians, are like rivers flowing through the body to irrigate and nourish the tissues and organs. An obstruction in the movement of these energy rivers is like a dam that backs up in others, which creates pain or other physical and emotional problems.
The meridians can be influenced by needling the acupuncture points the acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams, which creates pain or other physical and emotional problems, and re-establish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture treatment can therefore help the body's internal organs to correct imbalances in their digestion, absorption, and energy production activities, and in the circulation of their energy through the meridians.
The modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones which influence the body's own internal regulating system.
The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body's natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.