In Eastern terms, the explanation of how Acupuncture works is that the  energy flowing through the body, called Qi (pronounced chee), can be influenced and balanced by stimulating specefic points on the body. These points are located along channels of energy known as meridians, that connect all our major organs. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, illness arises when the cyclical flow of Qi in the meridians becomes unbalanced or is blocked.

Acupuncture works on the musculoskeletal system in a variety of ways. The first, and most obvious, is that it increases the the flow of blood to the muscles and tissues. This influx of immune serum helps to soften the musculature and flush out scar tissue that may be further impeding blood circulation, as well as the healing process.

Acupuncture also has the local effect of reducing inflamation. This is probably in part due to the fact that increased circulation brings anti-inflammatory blood cells to the area. This is applicable to a variety of conditions including, but not limited to, tendonitis, sinusitis, and arthritis.

The third mechanism in which acupuncture is useful in treating pain is that after an undetermined amount of time the body starts to release endorphines in response to the injury. As we all know, endorphines are the body's natural hormones that relieve pain and generally make us feel better.