FAQ.

"Acupuncture" means the stimulation of a certain point or points on or near the surface of the body by the insertion of needles to prevent or modity the perception of pain or to normalize physiological functions, including pain control, for the treatment of certain disease or dysfunctions of the body and includes the techniques of electroacupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion.

--cited from California Acupuncture Board Law & Regulations #4927(d)

The thought behind acupuncture is to acheive balance through the body. When treating pain and other illnesses acupuncturists try to find a specific acupuncture point that will address the physical problem, and therefore putting the body back in balance.

A common fear about acupuncture is the fear of needles. The needles are extremely thin (about the width of human hair), thinner than the ones used in injections. You'll feel pressure as the needle pierces the skin after the needle is in the muscle there should be no pain.

Typically, an acupuncture treatment includes needling 8-15 acupuncture points chosen by the acupuncturist based on your symptoms, signs and differentiations. The acupuncture needles will be kept for about 15 to 20 minutes. Each session is customized for your and your body's condition. Most chosen points are on the limbs, althogh head, back and abdomen points may also be used for differention conditions.