Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of extremely thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points or meridians. The main goal of acupuncture is to restore the body's balance of energy, or Qi (pronounced "chee"), which is believed to flow through pathways called meridians. A session typically begins with an initial consultation, where the practitioner takes a detailed medical history and may perform a physical examination, including examining the tongue, pulse, and other diagnostic methods unique to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Based on this assessment, the practitioner identifies the appropriate acupuncture points to target for the patient's specific condition.

Once the points are identified, the patient is usually asked to lie down or sit comfortably. The practitioner then inserts sterile, single-use needles into the skin at these specific points. The depth of needle insertion can vary from a few millimeters to a few centimeters, depending on the location and the intended effect. Most patients experience minimal discomfort as the needles are inserted. The needles are typically left in place for about 15 to 30 minutes, during which the patient may feel sensations like tingling, warmth, or a mild aching. These sensations are considered a sign that the treatment is effective. After the session, the needles are carefully removed and properly disposed of. Some patients may experience immediate relief, while others may notice an improvement in symptoms over the course of several treatments.