Acupressure is a method of healing and relieving symptoms by applying pressure to various points on the body. Once the points are pressed, the muscles in the area relax, and blood circulation increases, enabling the body to heal. Advocates of acupressure claim to get pain relief from this ancient art. An article on the Stanford website warns not to use acupressure in place of emergency or licensed medical care. If left untreated by a license physician, your condition may worsen. Certain pressure points should not be pressed if you are pregnant.
Lungs
The pressure point that controls the lungs, according to "Ten Highly Effective Pressure Points," an article on the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies website, is on the chest below the clavicle. Applying pressure to this spot can relieve tightening of the chest, asthma, and shoulder and back pain.
Sinuses
The web space between the thumb and the index finger and the fleshy part of the hand at the base of the thumb are the pressure points for the mouth, face and head. Pressure to these spots will treat sinus problems, allergies, colds, sneezing, sore throat, toothaches, headaches and fever. It can also relieve shoulder and arm pain. Pregnant women should not use this pressure point.
Restlessness
The pressure point that can help prevent restlessness is on the sole of the foot approximately one-third of the way from the base of the toes to the heel. Applying pressure to this spot should help relieve restlessness, anxiety, hypertension, insomnia, stress headaches and diarrhea caused by worry.
Fatigue
One of the points on the lower region of the spine is supposed to control yin and yang energy. Applying pressure to this spot should help strengthen the knees, decrease lower back pain and fight fatigue. It's also supposed to be good for the immune system by assisting the digestive organs.
Anger and Depression
The area of the foot between the first and second metatarsal bones is the location that can help release energy that creates anger, tension, depression, PMS and anxiety. Applying pressure to this region can relieve tightness and spasms.
Joint Pain
Toward the base of the spine is a point that affects legs, hips and the back. Apply pressure to this point to relieve pain caused by rheumatism, sciatica and stiff joints.
Worry
At the indention of the wrist is a pressure point that governs the mind. Pressure applied here can help calm the mind and make anxiety flow away. If you experience insomnia due to worry, this might help you fall asleep.
Stiff Neck
Slightly beneath the small of the back is an area that controls the shoulders, upper back and neck. Applying pressure to this location can help relieve a stiff neck as well as numbness and pain in your arms.
Gynecological, Digestive and Urinary Imbalances
Above the tibia is a pressure point that affects the kidneys, liver and spleen. Pressure applied to this area may relieve menstrual cramps, indigestion and abdominal pain or bloating. Pregnant women should not use this acupressure point.
Gas, Diarrhea and Constipation
Apply pressure to the point below the tibia that assists the spleen and stomach to assist digestion. You'll be able to find relief from gas, nausea, constipation and diarrhea.
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