lt involves the use of very thin needles that are inserted in the body at very specific points. This process is believed to adjust and alter the body's energy flow into healthier patterns, and is used to treat a wide variety of illnesses and health conditions. Although a variety of conditions can be addressed with acupuncture, the most common use for acupuncture in our office is that of pain management. Other conditions such a tinnitus, hot flashes, and dizziness have been treated successfully at our office using acupuncture, but most often it is utilized to control pain. lt is notable that if Dr. Downs recognizes that a patient's condition might benefit from a more traditional Chinese approach, he will refer patients to area acupuncturists who specialize in treating more deep-rooted and complex health issues. Thus, if a westernized/American style of acupuncture does not seem to be helping sufficiently, Dr. Downs works with other acupuncturists who utilize a more traditional Chinese method of acupuncture that may be more useful to the patient, and the appropriate referral is then initiated.