How Does Acupuncture Work from a Chinese Perspective?
In Chinese medicine, health is considered a manifestation of dynamic energetic balance among the various physiological systems of the body. In order to maintain this balance, the various energies of the body must always be allowed to flow smoothly and in the proper direction. If, for example, an injury occurs, an external pathogen such as cold settles into joints or emotions become blocked, the flow of energy in localized areas of the body can become disrupted. Over time, this may lead to complete stagnation of the energy or even reversal of its normal direction of flow which can ultimately effect the circulation of fluids and blood throughout the body. Without proper circulation, organs and tissues are deprived of the oxygen and vital nutrients they require in order to be able to function properly. As organs weaken, the physiological systems of the body begin to breakdown, symptoms develop and disease formation ensues. In essence, Chinese medical theory attributes stagnation of energy
