A brief search on the web reveals some of the mountains of anecdotal evidence that Acupuncture is effective for various different types of illness. But despite many efforts and proving that it does actually work, Western science has never been able to put a finger on exactly how Acupuncture works. Since Acupuncture is based on Daoist (Taoist) theories like Meridian theory, concepts of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, a Chinese diagnosis may seem strange and unscientific to Western physicians. In fact, a Chinese diagnosis is extremely comprehensive as it focuses on the whole pattern and on the root cause of the disease rather than simply on the symptoms themselves.

Acupuncture needles are inserted into points on the body that correspond to a pattern of disease or to pain in a certain area. These points run along energetic channels or Meridians. Using the theory of Meridians allows an acupuncturist to insert needles into areas of the body that appear to have no direct relation to the problem area itself, yet still have a strong effect. The advantage of this is that in some cases such as sprains and strains, the area may be swollen, bruised and sore. Acupuncturists can then use the theory of Meridians to put needles where they are effective but in places that cause the least amount of discomfort to the patient.

It is important to understand that Acupuncture (and Traditional Chinese Medicine in general), is not "folk medicine". It is a highly developed, systematic, recorded, researched, and peer reviewed form of medicine with several disciplines that continues to evolve. It has a massive amount of real-world data to justify the application of techniques based on several thousand years of human trials.