acupuncture /ak″yəpunk″chər/ [L, acus + punctura, puncture] , a method of producing analgesia or altering the function of a body system by inserting fine, wire-thin needles into the skin at specific body sites along a series of lines, or channels, called meridians. Acupuncture is highly effective in treating both acute and chronic pain associated with multiple causes. It is effective for nausea associated with chemotherapy, or postoperatively. The efficacy and safety of acupuncture for the treatment of a wide variety of physical and psychological disorders are being explored by researchers in the health care community. −acupuncturist, n.
