The body's qi runs along pathways called meridians, which is what the acupuncturist taps into with their needles. Condra says meridians are connected to organ systems throughout the body.
 

For example, the kidney meridian runs from underneath the left side of the collarbone, down the torso and ends underneath the left foot (see graphic for other meridian paths.
 

Condra says acupuncturists help their patients by determining where in the body his or her qi is unbalanced, adding that this unbalanced energy will manifest itself physically. By examining these physical symptoms, the acupuncturist determines what areas need to be treated. For example, one of the bodily functions maintained by the liver is evenness of temperament, says Condra. She says if someone is extremely angry all the time, it may indicate a qi deficiency in the liver.
 

By placing needles into points along the meridian, the energy will move and increase circulation throughout the meridian, Condra says. This helps regulate the flow of qi throughout the entire body and leads to improved health. Myriad factors help determine the number of needles used and how many treatments are necessary for improved health. Some factors include severity of the ailment and one's own desire to get better.
 

"There is no solid treatment protocol,"says Condra. "In this practice, we look at the individual, not patterns of symptoms."
 

Condra began practicing acupuncture after she says it helped her recover from lupus. After spending seven years unsuccessfully treating her disorder through conventional practice, Condra says acupuncture was her answer.