Acupressure involves applying pressure to various areas of the body. This noninvasive technique can work alongside traditional Western medicine. Research about the effectiveness of acupressure is less common than that on acupuncture; however, the technique may help managing chronic conditions or symptoms. Before starting any treatment regimen, learn about the technique and discuss it with a physician.
Acupressure falls under the general term of bodywork and is based in traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine, which dates back thousands of years, works on the belief that maintaining or restoring health requires maintaining the flow of qi energy, states the National Institutes of Health. If the flow of this energy becomes blocked, symptoms and disease can occur. Traditional Chinese medicine employs the use of acupressure as well as acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutritional guidance and exercise in the form of qi gong, tai chi or other martial arts forms.
Identification
Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that qi energy moves through the body in an elaborate meridian system, with meridian points all over the body. The Acupressure Institute claims that when these points are pressed on they restore the flow of qi and help stimulate the body's natural healing process. Acupressure uses the same meridian points as acupuncture but it stimulates them without using needles. Acupressure is used alone or in combination with massage, touch therapy, meditation or other techniques, and is administered by a professional or self-administered.
Benefits
The National Institutes of Health states that studying the effectiveness of acupressure is difficult because practitioners use various techniques and points and a patient's responses are subjective. However, the NIH states acupressure may release opioid peptides, which can help control pain. While the exact mechanisms are not well-understood, stimulating certain points on the body may alter immune system activity, improve circulation, lower blood pressure and calm the nervous system. More research is needed, but acupressure may help bring about desired physiological changes and appears to be especially helpful in managing chronic pain. It may also help manage pain from fibromyalgia and arthritis, and symptoms from cancer and its treatment.
Considerations
Meridian or acupressure points in the body correspond with a specific organ or symptom. According to the Stanford University School of Medicine, "By learning how to stimulate your own pressure points, you can relieve minor or moderate symptoms, and reduce the need for nonprescription drugs." Unlike drugs, relief with acupressure is usually immediate.
Acupressure charts show general areas where points are located. These points are easily identified because they are tender to the touch. Palpate the affected area until a tender spot is found. Apply deep pressure for 15 to 30 seconds to points on both sides of the body, at the same time if possible. Try various spots until symptoms diminish.
Forms
Stimulate acupressure points using the fingers or one of many tools. These include sticks and tools with rounded ends for hand use; acupressure balls to sit or roll on; and bags, foam rollers and pillows that have soft knobs that apply pressure to various areas. Classes at health clubs and community centers called Yamuna Body Rolling teach these techniques.
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