Zhen Jiu consists of acupuncture and moxibution, both of which have been practiced as therapeutic techniques in China for more than 2,000 years. They are used to induce stimulation in various locations of the body to treat ailments and relieve pain. The practice requires a thorough knowledge of anatomy and physiology as well as the system of Qi flow. There are fourteen channels and numerous collaterals under the body surface, which connect the body surface to various internal organs. Along the channels and collaterals are more than 360 acupoints and a number of extraordinary acupoints.
Acupuncture (the use of needles), and moxibustion (the use of heated herbs), aimed at specific acupoints along the pathways (channels and collaterals) in the body, can correct the flow of Qi and blood to restore optimal health and to block pain. Such stimulation can prompt a cascade of chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain to release the body's natural painkilling endorphins (a morphine-like substance generated by the body) and can impact on Qi, blood circulation, and various body functions. Magnets, mild electric current, manual pressure, or even low frequency lasers can also stimulate these acupoints to the same effect. These trigger points are rich with nerve endings that are linked to various parts of the human body. Some of the sensitive points that affect various body functions are located in the ear and on the sole of the foot. Acupuncture's painkilling effect has been used successfully for anesthesia in surgery, including thyroid surgery and some thoracic procedures.
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