Acupuncture is a safe and effective form of alternative medicine in which extremely thin sterile needles are inserted into the skin and left for a duration of time.  This ancient practice is around 3000 years old. It has a direct effect on the nervous system, circulatory system, immune system, endocrine system and digestive system. Strategic points are chosen together to carry out a specific therapeutic action in relation to the patient's condition. These needles are used to stimulate the central nervous system creating the release of endorphins and natural pain relieving neurohormones. Qi which is energy that is continuously circulating throughout our bodies is what these needle have a direct impact upon. There are around 2000 acupuncture points located on the body and are twelve regular meridians and eight extraordinary meridians and all of these channels have different points that have specific actions that directly affect our Qi.  These meridians are intricate networks of pathways that stretch all over our entire body. When there is a disruption or blockage of our Qi, our bodies become negatively affected.  Acupuncture is known for treating the symptoms of a condition as well as addressing the root of the problem with the goal being to reach homeostasis in the body or a balance between yin and yang and to allow a free flow of Qi in the body. Acupuncture is not a painful therapy because the needles are so fine.