Acupuncture has been used for over 3,000 years. The goal of acupuncture is to create harmony within the body by restoring the flow of Qi (pronounced “chi”), the life force involved in all body functions- breathing, heartbeat, metabolism and even emotions. The acupuncture needles are flexible steel needles and are very thin. Disposable sterile needles are used. These are placed in meridians that stimulate the production of endorphins. It is usually a painless procedure. The theory proposes that the stimulation of the acupuncture points prevents pain impulses from reaching the brain.