Acupuncture is a type of alternative medicine that treats patients by inserting thin needles into the body at certain points. It originated in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is based on the concept of balancing qi energy flow. While research has not found physical evidence for concepts like meridians or qi, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed properly by trained practitioners, though there are small risks. Clinical practice involves diagnosis and needle insertion, and studies show acupuncture is used to treat pain, neurological issues, and stroke rehabilitation. However, scientific research on acupuncture remains controversial and has not demonstrated the anatomical existence of points and meridians central to its theoretical framework.