Acupuncturists believe in the ancient Chinese philosophy that states there is a life force – called chi – which is made up of negative and positive flows of energy, respectively known as yin and yang, which course throughout the body along channels called meridians. Disease and pain, say the acupuncturists, are the result of an interruption or an imbalance in these flows of energy. Stimulation by acupuncture is meant to promote or re-establish the normal flow of energy along the meridians and so restore health.

Commonly used for the treatment of back pain, acupuncture has gained a considerably amount of acceptance from conventional medicine and is even used quite frequently by doctors. Although there is a great deal of dissent about how acupuncture works – one currently popular theory suggests that the needles cause the body to release additional endorphins, these being natural painkillers – there is little doubt that it certainly has been an effective treatment for sciatica and other symptoms of back problems.

If you’re put off by the very idea of having needles inserted into your body, it’s worth pointing out that the procedure is not in the slightest bit painful and at worst may be a touch uncomfortable. However, because it’s absolutely essential that needles used during treatment be sterile, you should only consult a fully qualified practitioner.

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