What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is a treatment that uses very thin steel needles inserted into your skin to stimulate specific points throughout your body, including your back, neck, head and face. The goal of acupuncture is to relieve a health condition or symptom, such as pain. The practice comes from traditional Chinese medicine. Scientific studies have confirmed its effectiveness for some conditions. Acupuncture is mainly a supplemental therapy. You may need other medical treatments to help relieve your health issues. What does acupuncture treat? Acupuncture can help treat many types of health issues. Most often, people use it to relieve chronic (long-term) pain, such as: Arthritis. Back pain, neck pain or muscle pain. Headaches and migraines. Knee pain. Menstrual cramps. Sports injuries. Face pain and other nerve discomfort. Other health conditions acupuncture may help include: Cancer and cancer treatment side effects. Immune system problems. Infertility. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Menopause and hot flashes. Pregnancy discomforts. Repetitive strain disorders and overuse syndrome.