Acupuncture - as a treatment - is a kind of ancient Chinese medicine which originated more than 8000 years ago. This kind of treatment is based on Taoist spiritual philosophies, that consider our lives as made of a constant flow of a spiritual energy called chee (qi) and that human beings are able to heal themselves if they channel this energy properly. Acupuncture is done through the insertion of needles - specially designed - into particular points of the body, resulting in benefits and healing. Acupuncture is often used as a method for pain reduction, or to combat substance addiction, or as a treatment for chronic fatigue.

Acupuncture methodologies found their way to Europe and the United States in the early 1900s. They have been gaining acceptance over the years. Acupuncture first became mainstream in France and then spread through other European countries. Acupuncture became more acceptable in the United States during the 1970s after President Nixon's detente with China.

One widespread use of this acupuncture treatment is for the alleviation of arthritic symptoms. Acupuncture is becoming more popular as a non-pharmaceutical treatment for arthritis. Acupuncture may provide a substitute for analgesic drugs, which may have addictive properties and may cause unwanted side effects. The philosophy behind using acupuncture to treat arthritis is that arthritis is caused by blockages of the qi energy, the life-force of the body. Precisely placed needles are used to release these blockages, thus giving relief to the painful symptoms.

Provigil (Modafinil) has served as a successfuly treatment for chronic fatigue. It accomplished this by increasing the receptiveness of brain's alpha-1 receptors to the neurotransmitter noradrenaline. This boosts alertness, memory and energy through the body. The body can then stay cognitive, reducing fatigue and keeping energy level.

Addictive patterns of activity can be altered with acupuncture treatment. By varying the qi energy restrictions and flow patterns in the body, this therapy can vary the nervous system, specifically brain activity. It can be very helpful for different problems such as alcoholism, drug use and smoking or perhaps even gambling.

Acupuncture will gain more popularity and acceptance as a form of natural treatment for pain,fatigue and addiction due to its proven success in combating these illness in recent times. For me Acupuncture is a good way of treating illnesses with no side effects and I belive that the usage of Acupuncture will increase in coming years.