Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. Acupuncturists are practitioners who specialize in this technique and may also use other traditional Chinese medicine practices such as cupping, moxibustion, and herbal medicine.

Acupuncturists typically start by assessing a patient’s overall health and symptoms, as well as their medical history and lifestyle. They may use a variety of diagnostic techniques, including pulse and tongue diagnosis, to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

During an acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will insert thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body. The needles are left in place for several minutes, during which time the patient may feel a sense of warmth, heaviness, or tingling. This process is typically painless, and many people find it to be deeply relaxing.

Acupuncturists may also use other techniques such as cupping, in which suction cups are placed on the skin to stimulate blood flow and relieve tension, and moxibustion, in which a heated herb is placed near the skin to stimulate the body’s healing response.

Overall, the goal of acupuncture is to promote balance and harmony within the body, and to support the body’s natural healing processes. It is often used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, digestive disorders, and respiratory problems, among others.