Definitions: Qi 1. Energy. 2. Vital force. Meridian 1. A pathway from the organs to every part of the body. Qi Stagnation 1. An interruption in the flow of Qi through the meridians, possibly causing organ imbalances with a loss of normal function. 2.An interruption of communication from the organs to any cell or tissue in the body. Organ Imbalance 1. A state of abnormal organ function due to deficiency or excess, possibly causing Qi stagnation. The organs are the lungs, large intestine, stomach, spleen, liver, gall bladder, pericardium, heart, small intestine, kidneys and bladder. Every one of these organs interacts with every other. Imbalances in the liver, for example, affect the spleen adversely. Qi stagnation is a condition in which Qi is not moving smoothly from the organs to the rest of the body. This congests the meridians and affects the normal transmission of body impulses. The function and healing process of vital body parts are often affected. Organ imbalance and Qi stagnation are caused by any physical, emotional or chemical stress the person cannot adapt to. In the early stages, Qi stagnation affects only muscles, ligaments or organs. Although extreme pain has been observed in some cases, it is more often noticed as a discomfort, or not noticed at all. However, if the condition is allowed to go untreated, the body will attempt to help support the affected area, but may deform instead. As the muscles become more rigid, the area starts to degenerate. The longer the condition is allowed to go untreated, the less chance there is for recovery. What began as a minor problem or discomfort may lead to irreversible damage. The purpose of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is to return the flow of Qi back to normal and to have the organs working at their peak. This will in turn encourage the Qi to flow smoothly and restore function to the affected area. If detected early, Qi stagnation and organ imbalances may respond well to Chinese Medicine with an excellent chance for a complete and painless recovery.