The acupressure method of healing has been in use throughout the world for about 5,000 years, though its origins are mainly attributed to Asian countries, such as China, Japan, Korea and India. The system was possibly discovered during war, when soldiers reported relief from chronic ailments as a side effect of puncture or piercing wounds. Acupressure is based on the same philosophy of health as acupuncture. Also, the same energy meridians---or, pathways--and treatment points are used. The primary difference between the two forms of healing is in the way the points are stimulated.
Theory
Acupressure theory approaches the body as a miniature representation of the greater world, containing a human version of each of the elements of nature and subject to the same natural laws. The body-mind connection forms a significant part of acupressure theory, which acknowledges the contribution of mental and emotional states in health and healing. Opposing energy forces, known as yin and yang, govern the flow of energy, or chi, through meridians. The same chi that flows through nature is thought to flow through the human body. Specific points on the skin surface serve as access points to the meridians. Contacting these points through touch, as in acupressure, helps to balance the flow of chi, directing energy to where there are deficiencies and away from places of overabundance.
Techniques
Use of fingertip pressure, as practiced in acupressure, was found, in a study of 4,800 surgical patients, to be as effective at controlling post-operative nausea and vomiting as drugs, and with minimal side effects. Acupressure theory holds that touch allows for the transference of energy from practitioner to patient, and when acupressure is being applied by one individual to another, this is a factor that enhances the effect. Self-administered acupressure is a valid and useful approach as well, and can be performed with the help of blunt instruments such as pencil erasers.
Applications
Acupressure is applicable to a wide range of health conditions. Headaches, neck and joint pain, colds, flu, digestive disorders, anxiety, menstrual irregularities and high blood pressure are some ailments that respond to acupressure. Some points can serve more than one function. The point identified as Large Intestine 4 can help with sinus congestion, headaches, fever and toothaches, as well as shoulder and arm pain. Bladder 23 is good for the digestive and immune systems, and back and knee pain. Liver 3 relieves anxiety and irritability, and supports the tendons.
Effects
One of the most appealing effects of acupressure is its relative safety and the lack of unpleasant or dangerous side effects. Also, by promoting relaxation, the digestive and immune systems function better, sleep improves, and overall health and resilience to stress improve. Since in this system symptoms are not necessarily a direct representation of the body part they affect, a treatment for one condition might confer benefits or have a protective effect on an unrelated area, according the the website Acupressure.com.
Cautions
Acupressure is best used to augment the care of a qualified health professional and should not be relied upon as a sole source of health care. Purely symptomatic treatment can lead to worsening of the underlying cause. Open wounds or acute swelling or inflammation are contraindications to the use of acupressure. Certain acupressure points may worsen some conditions such as high blood pressure, or endanger a pregnancy. As in all health care endeavors, the advice of a professional should be sought before proceeding.
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