In traditional Chinese medicine they believe there are channels through which energy (Chi) flows. The flow of energy should be constant in a healthy person but if you are ill or injured the energy may be reduced or increased. Placing fine needles into these channels in special acupuncture points changes the energy flow. This aims to restore the normal flow of energy and eases your signs and symptoms, including pain. Modern science has shown that using acupuncture needles stimulates your nerves and brain to release special chemicals which act as your own natural stress and pain relievers. It also allows nerves to send messages that help to block out painful ones.
It is one of the oldest forms of treatment and has been used in China for over 3000 years and there is some evidence that it have may even have been used by prehistoric man. It involves inserting fine needles into the local area where pain is experienced or away from it or both.