Yin and Yang is an important theory in the discussion of Acupuncture treatment. in relation to the Chinese theory of body systems. As stated earlier Qi is an energy force that runs throughout the body. In addition. Qi is also prevalent throughout nature as well. Qi is comprised of two parts. Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang are opposite forces. that when balanced. work together. Any upset in the balance will result in natural calamities. in nature; and disease in humans. Yin is signified by female attributes. passive. dark. cold. moist. that which moves medially. and deficient of Yang. Yang is signified by male attributes. light. active. warm. dry. that which moves laterally. and deficient of Yin. Nothing is completely Yin or Yang. The most striking example of this is man himself. A man is the combination of his mother (Yin) and and his father (Yang). He contains qualities of both: This is the universal symbol describing the constant flow of yin and yang forces. You`ll notice that within yin. there is Yang. and within Yang. there is the genesis of Yin. Whether or not you believe in Taoist philosophy. (which all this is based on). one thing is indisputable: Acupuncture works.

Acupuncturists can use as many as nine types of Acupuncture needles. though only six are commonly used today. These needles vary in length. width of shaft. and shape of head. Today. most needles are disposible. They are used once and disgarded in accordance with medical biohazard regulations and guidlines. There are a few different precise methods by which Acupuncturists insert needles. Points can be needled anywhere in the range of 15 degrees to 90 degrees relative to the skin surface. depending on the treatment called for. In most cases. a sensation. felt by the patient. is desired. This sensation. which is not pain. is called deqi (pronounced dah-chee). The following techniques are some which may be used by an Acupuncturist immediately following insertion: Raising and Thrusting. Twirling or Rotation. Combination of Raising/Thrusting and Rotation. Plucking. Scraping (vibrations sent through the needle). and Trembling (another vibration technique). Once again. techniques are carefully chosen based on the ailment.