Acupuncture is part of the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM explains that the human body has acupuncture points connected by meridians. These meridians are pathways that create an energy flow (Qi, pronounced "chee") through the body that is responsible for overall health. Disruption of the energy flow can cause disease. By inserting needles in specific points along these meridians, it improves the flow of Qi, thereby improving health.
Studies have shown that acupuncture is effective for a variety of conditions.