Electro-acupuncture was developed in China as an extension of hand manipulation of acupuncture needles 50 years ago. A pulsating electrical current is applied to acupuncture needles as a means of stimulating the acupoints. The procedure for electro-acupuncture is to insert the acupuncture needle as it would normally be done, attain the qi reaction by hand manipulation, and then attach an electrode to the needle to provide continued stimulation. It can promote metabolism and blood circulation, improve tissue nutrition, and eliminate inflammatory edema. It is good for arthritis, pain, paralysis, and muscle problems.