Acupressure
Acupressure sends signal to the body to “turn on” its own self-healing mechanisms. Normally, Qi (vital energy) circulates through natural pathways in the body called meridians. Blockage of this flow can cause pain. Acupressure helps to restore the flow of Qi and promote self-healing.
Acupressure is used on patients who are afraid of needles in the clinic. Patients are encouraged to practice acupressure at home. If done correctly and regularly, this method of self-massage can sustain improvement and minimize recurrence of symptoms. Be patient and consistent when practicing acupressure at home. A simple way to stimulate these points is to press firmly with a finger in a rotary movement or an up-and-down movement for several minutes at a time.
Below is a list of seven commonly used acupressure points. Click the name to learn when to use each of the points and how to locate it.
Gallbladder 20 (GB20): Feng Chi
This point is recommended for headache, migraine, eye blurriness or fatigue, low energy, and cold/flu symptoms. It is located by feeling the mastoid (ear) bone and following the groove back to where the neck muscles attach to the skull.
Gallbladder 21 (GB21): Jian Jing
This point is located by pinching the shoulder muscle with your thumb and middle finger and is commonly used for stress, facial pain, headaches, toothaches and neck pain. Use with caution in pregnant women.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4): He Gu
This point is good for stress, headaches, toothaches, facial pain and neck pain. However, as a word of precaution, it can induce labor and must never be used during pregnancy.
Liver 3 (LV3): Tai Chong
You need to take off your shoe to find this point. This is an excellent area to stimulate for stress, low back pain, high blood pressure, limb pain, insomnia and emotional upset.
Pericardium 6 (P6): Nei Guan
This point can help provide relief for nausea, anxiety, carpal tunnel syndrome, upset stomach, motion sickness and headaches and is even used for regulation of heart palpitations.
Spleen 6 (SP6): San Yin Jiao
This point can be very helpful for many urological and pelvic disorders as well as fatigue and insomnia. Avoid during pregnancy.
Stomach36 (ST36): Zu San Li
You can find this point useful for fatigue and depression as well as knee pain and gastrointestinal discomfort. Asians frequently stimulate this point for health promotion and longevity.