Acupuncture is a treatment used to prevent disease and promote better balance of energy flow throughout the body. It may be employed to control or eliminate pain disorders. The nature of the therapy is the insertion of fine 28- to 32-gauge stainless steel needles into specific points, or loci, on the human body. The points are referred to as acupuncture points and they are found on specific channels or pathways called meridians. The meridians are fine, invisible lines that are interconnected and carry energy from the extremities to the trunk and head, and back again to the extremities. The energy coursing through these channels is referred to as Chi or Prana. These energy channels also have an internal circulation that interconnects with the various viscera or organs of the body. (8 pp.)