Acupuncture was originally developed in China more than 5000 years ago as a treatment method for pain and body dysfunction, with the earliest known writings on acupuncture dating back to 200 BC. Vital energy (qi or ‘chi’) circulates through the body via pathways (meridians). The energy can become blocked, depleted or excessive. When the energy to a particular point or group of points is altered, the effects can show up in an area of the body or an entire body system Needling specific point that connect to the interior organs and structures at certain points (over 1000 of them) can restore the proper balance of qi. This can help to normalize the function of the area that has been affected. This is achieved by the use of hair-fine needles placed at particular points around the body to help with pain, facilitate healing or promote a sense of well being.