Acupuncture in North Carolina

Acupuncture originated in China more than 3,000 years ago as part of a broader system of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Early writings such as the Huangdi Neijing described pathways of qi, or vital energy, and proposed that stimulating points along these meridians could influence organ function and relieve discomfort. By 1000 BCE, sharpened stones and later bronze and silver needles were used to apply this therapy. Acupuncture spread to Japan, Korea, and eventually Europe, each culture adapting it to their medical traditions. In the modern world, acupuncture gained recognition in the 1970s when American journalists reported on its use in China for surgical pain management. Today, acupuncture is widely practiced in hospitals, clinics, and private offices across the globe. Scientific studies suggest it may affect the nervous system, trigger endorphin release, and improve circulation. While its historical framework remains rooted in qi and meridians, acupuncture’s modern appeal lies in its combination of ancient tradition and contemporary validation. It is now used for stress relief, migraine, and sports injuries, making it one of the most enduring and adaptable forms of care.