Acupuncture is a technique in which very thin needles of varying lengths are inserted and manipulated into points on the body through the skin to restore health and well-being, and particularly to treat pain. Acupuncture needles are used in specific acupuncture points through which the Qi (vital energy) flows to balance the Yin and Yang (Two opposing but complementary forces whose interaction and balance affect everything in the universe).

Acupuncture is thought to have originated in China and is most commonly associated with Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Different types of acupuncture (Classical Chinese, Japanese, Tibetan, and Korean acupuncture) are practiced and taught throughout the world.

The WHO, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the American Medical Association (AMA) and various government reports have also studied and commented on the efficacy of acupuncture. There is also general agreement that acupuncture is safe when administered by well-trained practitioners.