  Acupuncture, a key element of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has become a widely popular alternative medicine with the American public in recent years. This treatment has considerable potential for treating problems associated with physical disability, including spinal cord injury (SCI) and multiple sclerosis. Acupuncture’s potential includes the intriguing possibility of restored function.
Acupuncture-related therapies consist of stimulating specific points on the skin by inserting needles or applying heat, pressure, or massage. Acupuncture usually is combined with a variety of other Eastern therapies, such as herbal treatments, food and nutrition therapy, exercise, and meditation. The thin, usually disposable, needles rarely draw blood, and any discomfort is mild.
 The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed over 100 disorders that may be amenable to acupuncture treatment, including respiratory, eye, mouth gastrointestinal, neurological, orthopedic, bronchopulmonary, reproductive, hypertension, insomnia, skin, arthritic, allergic, and addictive disorders. It is rarely used to treat infectious disease. Acupuncture seems to work better at early stages before impaired body function progresses into organic or tissue damage. It is often a preventive measure to preserve good health. Adverse reactions are rare, especially compared to drugs or other medical treatments.
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