The 8000 year old Chinese form of medicine called Acupunture is based on Taoist spiritual beliefs. The basis of this system is that life is comprised of a flow of spiritual energy called qi or chee, which can be used to naturally heal human beings. This has been done for centuries by channeling qi properly through a process of inserting special needles into pre-determined points of the body. Acupuncture is a proven form of alternative medicine used as treatment for chronic fatigue, pain reduction and even substance abuse

The West adapted Acupuncture treatment in the early part of twentoeth centuary since then the popularity of Acupuncture is steadily improving. France was the first country to follow Acupuncture methods and the rest of Western Eurpoe followed it. Since the trip by President Nixon of United States to China Acupuncture has become popular in United States

Arthritis is one of the illnesses that respond well to acupuncture treatment. Traditional treatments for arthritis involve the use of pain medications, but these have many side effects and can also be addictive. Acupuncture uses needles that theoretically release blockages in the qi energy in the body, thus relieving the problems caused by such blockages. The pain of arthritis is apparently one of the ills caused by these interruptions in energy flow and many sufferers have found natural, non-drug relief of their symptoms.

Acupuncture has served as a extremely successful treatment for chronic fatigue. It accomplishes this by opening up the flow of qi energy. This creates a positive energy field that flows through and around the body. The body can then tap into this energy, revitalizing the body and bringing alertness to the mind.

Addictive patterns of activity can be altered with acupuncture treatment. By varying the qi energy restrictions and flow patterns in the body, this therapy can vary the nervous system, specifically brain activity. It can be very helpful for different problems such as alcoholism, drug use and smoking or perhaps even gambling.

The current popularity of acupuncture techniques, suggests that it will remain a preferred natural treatment for addiction, fatigue and pain. In my opinion, acupuncture is a miracle treatment, with almost no side effects, which will continue to remain popular in the coming years.

Keith Ferris has been practicing and teaching acupuncture in Bristol, England since the 1980s.