Acupuncture is part of a broad system of medicine conceived of in China, where it still features in mainstream healthcare, both as a stand-alone therapy and in combination with conventional western medicine. It takes a holistic view of the body, equating health with internal balance rather than simply the absence of disease. While two people may both suffer from the same symptom, migraine for example, the underlying imbalance causing this expression of illness is unique to the individual. Consequently, diagnosis and treatments must take into account the whole person, treating not just the symptoms, but also their root cause. Fundamental to this state of balance is to have highly oxygenated, nutrient rich blood, circulating unimpeded throughout the body. Where the flow is impeded or restricted, ill health will occur. This can take the form of musculoskeletal pain, internal issues such as digestive and menstrual problems and emotional disorders such as irritability and stress.
