The basic idea is different from conventional acupuncture: Treats the meridians on the opposite side or a different related meridian rather than necessarily needling the painful area. Uses meridian relationships and balance systems to determine which points to select. Often aims for a rapid change in pain or movement while the needles are retained. Practitioners may test the patient’s range of motion or symptoms before and after needling. It is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain, though practitioners apply it to other complaints too. For example for right shoulder pain, a Balance Method practitioner might select points on the left leg or arm according to the particular meridian involved.