Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting very thin needles through a person's skin at specific points on the body, to various depths. Research suggests that it can help relieve pain, and it is used for a wide range of other complaints. There are around 12 different types of acupuncture being performed in the world today, 8 traditional and 4 western. All types of acupuncture treatment aim to improve health and wellbeing using a treatment plan. Tui na, cupping, gua sha and moxibustion are not types of acupuncture but are separate treatment modalities.  A key component of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Increasingly, it is being used for overall wellness, including stress management.