Acupuncture treatment is a form of ancient Chinese medicine whose origins can be traced back for over 8000 years. Acupuncture treatment is based on Taoist spiritual philosophies, which believe that our life force is comprised of a constant flow of spiritual energy called qi (chee), and that humans can naturally heal themselves by properly channeling this energy. Acupuncture is accomplished by inserting specially designed hollow needles into specific points of the body which results in benefiting and healing effects. Acupuncture is frequently used for pain reduction, treatment for chronic fatigue and is even used to battle substance addiction.

Acupuncture techniques found their way to the West in the early twentieth centaury, where they have steadily been gaining popularity ever since. Acupuncture was first popularized in France, and then spread through Western Europe. Acupuncture treatment became popular in the United States in the 1970's after President Nixon's diplomatic trip to China.

Acupuncture treatment is commonly used as a natural therapy for arthritis treatment. It is an alternative to addictive pain killers with potentially undesirable side effects. Acupuncture believes that arthiritis is caused by blockages of the body's qi energy. Acupuncture needles, when properly used, can release these blockages, resulting in reducing the pain associated with arthiritis. The flow of qi is re-established, thus ensuring safe and natural treatment of arthritis.

Acupuncture has been found to be very beneficial in the treatment for chronic fatigue. Acupuncture does this by releasing the flow of qi energy. This generate a positive aura of energy that flows through and around the body. Your body can then use this newfound energy, regenerate the cells and bringing about clarity to the mind.

Addictive patterns of activity can be altered with acupuncture treatment. By varying the qi energy restrictions and flow patterns in the body, this therapy can vary the nervous system, specifically brain activity. It can be very helpful for different problems such as alcoholism, drug use and smoking or perhaps even gambling.

With the recent success of acupuncture there is good reason to expect that acupuncture will continue to flourish as a natural treatment for pain, fatigue, and addiction. Acupuncture for me represents a fantastic treatment, with little or no side effects, whose popularity will continue to grow in years to come.

Keith Ferris has been practicing and teaching acupuncture in Bristol, England since the 1980s.