Acupuncture is a technique of inserting and manipulating filiform needles into "acupuncture points" on the body. According to acupuncture theory, this will restore health and well-being, and is particularly good at treating pain. The definition and characterization of these points is standardized by the World Health Organization. Acupuncture is thought to have originated in China and is most commonly associated with Traditional Chinese medicine. Different types of acupuncture (Japanese, Korean, and classical Chinese acupuncture) are practiced and taught throughout the world.
Scientists are studying the mechanisms and efficacy of acupuncture. According to the protocols of evidence-based medicine, there is good evidence that acupuncture is effective in treating nausea and chronic low back pain, and moderate evidence for neck pain and headache. Critics of acupuncture claim that for many conditions there is a lack of evidence in the English language that acupuncture is effective beyond a placebo, with reviewers noting a lack of modern studies. The WHO, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) of the National Institute of Health (NIH), the American Medical Association (AMA) and various government reports have also studied and commented on the efficacy of acupuncture. There is general agreement that acupuncture is at least safe when administered by well-trained practitioners, and that further research is warranted.
Traditional Chinese medicine's acupuncture theory predates use of the scientific method, and has received various criticisms based on scientific thinking. There is no known anatomical or histological basis for the existence of acupuncture points or meridians. Acupuncturists tend to perceive TCM concepts in functional rather than structural terms, i.e. as being useful in guiding evaluation and care of patients. Neuroimaging research suggests that certain acupuncture points have distinct effects that are not otherwise predictable anatomically. -- (compliments of www.Wikipedia.com)
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