The world is facing a phenomenon for the first time in history, that of an increased population of older adults (baby boomers) versus adolescents, young adults, and children. The birth rate has slowed dramatically and, in some parts of the world where overpopulation was a serious issue, governments no longer have to worry.

Medical advances mean that people are living longer. Adults, for the most part, no longer have to be hunter/gatherers and can instead focus on healthy lives filled with ease and comfort. People no longer have to live with chronic pain and anguish. A pop of a pill is not always the answer though, and more individuals are seeking alternatives. The fastest rising trend in healthcare is in the field of Oriental Medicine and, in particular, acupuncture.

Acupuncture is by no means something new or a current trend that will fall from favor. In fact, the technique has been in use for over two thousand years, mostly in China. In the recent past, acupuncture's positive results have gained notoriety in the Western world, and many people turn to the technique because of its non-invasiveness. Acupuncture can easily treat many illnesses and common complaints, such as back pain, depression, and even nausea from chemotherapy, with little side effects and a rapid recovery time.

The procedure begins with an initial consultation with the licensed acupuncturist, akin to a standard office visit. There are questions asked regarding past medical history, a standard physical, and then the areas which need to be addressed during the acupuncture session. It is comparative to a visit to the chiropractor where the issue is not solved with one visit, as acupuncture often takes many visits to find relief, though many patients report some immediate alleviation to the pain.

During acupuncture, a series of thin, solid needles are inserted at different points into the body. There are more than two thousand of these points that run along what are called meridians, or pathways. There are fourteen pathways within the body that keep the body's energy, or Qi (pronounced chee), flowing. It is believed that when these meridians become blocked, then illness occurs.

After insertion, the needles are then manipulated by various means, and the patient is left to relax for a period of time. Once that time has expired, the needles are removed. It most often takes several visits to work on a painful problem, so instantaneous relief should not be expected.

People may tend to think of acupuncture as being something relatively new in common practice, but it can be found in many areas that individuals aren't aware of. Hospitals, addiction-treatment centers, and even prisons have been using acupuncture as a method to help with health complaints such as chronic pain, addiction, and depression. Acupuncture remains a solid alternative to other types of cures and its results will continue to be monitored because of its positive outcome.