A traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses thin sterile needles, which are inserted into various points along the body, to remove obstructions of energy and stimulate the flow of Chi.

Refers to the use of CAM in place of conventional medicine.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

From Sanskrit meaning spinning wheel or vortex of energy; there are seven primary chakras that flow through the human body and are considered to be the focal points for the reception and transmission of energies.

Essence of life; the circulating life energy that is inherent in all living things; in traditional Chinese medicine the balance of negative and positive forms in the body is believed to be essential for good health.

Refers to the use of CAM together with conventional medicine.

Refers to medicine as practiced by medical doctors (MD), doctors of osteopathy (DO) and by allied health professionals.

Refers to the use of both conventional and CAM treatments for which there is evidence of safety and effectiveness.

The practice of acupuncture performed by a licensed physician.

Channel or avenue through which Chi travels through the body.