In the acupuncture procedure, filiform or very fine needles are inserted in the acupuncture points as determined by the acupuncturist. These are in specific areas through which the flow of energy moves. After the insertion, the needles are generally left for about ten to forty minutes. During that time, the acupuncturist may manipulate the needle by rotating or twirling it. It is also possible that he may raise or thrust it, cause it to vibrate or pluck it. The combination of movements is decided upon by the acupuncturist based on the ailment afflicting the individual. The persons undergoing the procedure would usually experience a sense of well-being as well as relief from their discomforts.

The needles come in various lengths, sizes or diameters and head shapes. There are about nine types of needles used in acupuncture but only six are now commonly used. After the use of such needles, they are disposed of due to health concerns.

The term acupuncture is taken from the Latin words acus which means needles and pungere meaning to prick. Acupuncture translates to pricking with needles. In the actual practice, very fine needles are inserted in various points of the body in order to relieve pain and to treat some medical conditions. The specific acupuncture points are located along the meridians where the qi, or the vital energy, of the body passes through.

The acupuncture is done to restore the balance of energy or the qi. It is said that the qi has two kinds, the yin and the yang. These two opposing energies have to have a balance and should work together to make the body function well. If the balance is upset, then the body suffers.

Acupuncture is sometimes performed together with the use of heat produced by burning particular herbs in the procedure known as moxibustion. Acupuncture is also related to other alternative medicine practices such as acupressure and reflexology.