​TCM teaches that the body falls out of balance due to an imbalance of two forces that comprise Qi: Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang are opposite forces, like the positive and negative forces surrounding an atom. Just as an atom is composed of both positive and negative charges and cannot be found alone, so living beings and their components are composed of Yin and Yang that constantly flow among each other to create the Qi. When there is too much Yin or too little Yang or too little Yin and too much Yang, the Qi is disturbed, the body falls out of balance, and there is illness.
Acupuncture is used to restore the imbalance between Yin and Yang and allow the Qi to freely flow throughout the meridians. Acupuncture points are specific locations where the Meridians come to the surface of the skin and are easily accessible by “needling” them. This needling restores the balance of Yin and Yang and improves the flow of Qi.
Acupuncturists used nine types of sterile disposable needles of variance lengths. There are a number of precise techniques used by acupuncturists for inserting the needles. Points can be needled at different angles relative to the skin surface. The acupuncturist can insert the needle using various motions or combinations of motions including thrusting, plucking, and vibration techniques. Depending upon the therapy and treatment, heated herbs may be applied to the needle or electricity may be used to stimulate the points through the needle.