, also commonly spelled ch'i, chi or ki, is a fundamental concept of everyday Chinese culture, most often defined as "air" or "breath" (for example, the colloquial Mandarin Chinese term for "weather" is tian qi, or the "breath of heaven") and, by extension, "life force" or "spiritual energy" that is part of everything that exists. References to qi or similar philosophical concepts as a type of metaphysical energy that sustains living beings are used in many belief systems.
Acupuncture has been cited as a natural cure for arthritis symptoms by the World Health Organization since 1980. Acupuncture refers to needle therapy. Acupuncturists insert tiny needles into the body at strategic locations or acupuncture points that are known to be high-energy spots. The stimulation provided has various physical and psychological benefits for arthritis patients.
HealthDay - WEDNESDAY, Jan. 20 (HealthDay News) -- A new national survey finds that
most medical students think that knowledge of complementary and
alternative medicine could help Western doctors do a better job.
Title: Lower Back Pain
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 12/31/1997
Last Editorial Review: 12/2/2009