We know there are electrical currents running through the human body — some of which can be measured with an electrocardiogram.

We can also measure the electrical activity of the nerves with a procedure called a nerve conduction study.

Acupuncture is a procedure in which the skin is penetrated with needles to stimulate certain parts of the body.

It works by influencing the energetic (or electrical) flow in the body.

In acupuncture theory, the energy (electricity) pathways in the body are called “meridians.”

In fact, studies have found differences in electrical activity at acupuncture points compared to other parts of the body.

According to acupuncture theory, an injury to the body disrupts the normal electrical flow around the traumatic area.

For example, an injury to the knee may impede the meridians — the electrical or energetic circuits — around the knee, leading to pain.

How can you help the body repair the injury to the knee?

There are many natural methods for aiding the body in healing. In the case of our knee injury, you could try:

• Acupuncture

• Chiropractic therapy

• Massage therapy

• Physical therapy

All of these procedures can be used to restore the normal electrical activity that was damaged during the injury.

Once the body restores the proper electrical or energetic flow through the meridians, the injury, pain, swelling, erythema, and other symptoms will subside.

When patients complain of discomfort, I always think about how that discomfort relates to the body’s energy meridians.

I often find complaints of pain relate directly to disrupted energy flow.