This ancient Chinese medical practice seeks to relieve pain by balancing the body’s natural energy pathways. The flow of energy is known as qi (pronounced CHEE).
For this practice, acupuncturists place tiny, thin needles into your skin. The location of the insertion is related to the source of the pain. Based on the qi, a needle may be inserted far from the part of the body experiencing pain.
Acupuncture may relieve pain by causing the body to release serotonin, a “feel-good” chemical that eases pain.
A 2012 study found that acupuncture helped relieve pain associated with OA, migraines, and various locations of chronic pain.