When healthy, an abundant supply of qi (pronounced “chee”) or "life energy" flows through the body's meridians (a network of channels through the body). If the flow of qi in the meridians becomes blocked or there is an inadequate supply of qi, then the body fails to maintain harmony and order, and any number of symptoms can manifest. The disharmony of qi can result from environmental pathogens, stress, disease, or numerous lifestyle factors. Acupuncturists look carefully for these signs of health and dysfunction, assessing not only the presenting signs and symptoms, but also the medical history, general constitution, and other diagnostic tools such as pulse and tongue.
 
Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body's meridians to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of qi through the individual.  An acupuncture point is like a gateway into the network of meridians. A specific combination of points is chosen for each patient to create the desired shift in the movement of qi, and a shift in symptoms follows.