A simple answer is that acupuncture helps the energy “highways” in your body flow better.

Meridians (channels) are the energy superhighways in your body. There are 12 main and 8 extra meridians (also known as channels) described in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Each meridian is the pathway for energy flow related to an organ system within the body.

Perceptive physicians many years ago mapped out these channels and found associations with organ systems including the Lungs, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestines, Urinary Bladder, Kidneys, Pericardium, Triple Burner*, Gall Bladder and Liver.  Although there is some overlap with western medicine’s understanding on how these systems work, TCM treatments and philosophy do not always translate into western medicine. When I was in medical school, I felt that I needed a passport to travel between my medical and acupuncture classes.  _{*The Triple Burner is a 3 tier system enclosing the entire body cavity and ensuring unity and harmony of the organs.}

Treating points along the meridians can help tap into the channels and help improve the flow of energy by supporting a weak channel or reducing an over stimulated channel. For example, if energy is blocked within a meridian, certain acupuncture points can help unblock the channel. Much like how a snowplow clears snow from the roads, acupuncture reduces congestion and pain.  At the same time, other points may strengthen a channel, much like repairing potholes.

Acupuncture, when practiced as a system of medicine, can help reduce suffering at a specific area and help the body as a whole.  This is different from dry needling that is used to address pain at the site of pain only. 

Acupuncture can help to balance mood and hormones, reduce pain, improve sleep, promote relaxation, and much more. 

Dr. Rodgers provides acupuncture at her Payette, Idaho office.