The History Of Acupressure

An ancient treatment that originated in China, acupressure can be used to promote relaxation and treat conditions such as digestive illness, nausea and insomnia. Acupressure stimulates various points on the body to encourage the proper flow of energy through channels known as meridians.

Definition

Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine similar to acupuncture. Where acupuncture uses needles to stimulate healing points on the body, acupressure employs physical pressure using the fingers, elbows or various instruments. Acupressure may also involve stretching, massage and other elements of bodywork.

Theory

The teachings of traditional Chinese medicine explain that there are 12 major meridians in the human body. These meridians are the pathways for energy, or qi, pronounced "chee." Meridians also form a communication system between organs or networks of organs in the body. TCM teaches that when the flow of energy along meridians is blocked or imbalanced, the result is illness. Acupressure seeks to restore the flow of energy in the body and stimulate the body's natural ability to heal itself.

History

According to Healthpointe Community Acupuncture in Rockville, Maryland, acupressure was used as early as the Shang dynasty in 1700 B.C. to treat digestive illness. Writings dating back to 206 B.C. reveal that acupressure was used at the onset of illness to prevent disease from progressing. During the Tang dynasty, from 618 to 907 B.C., doctoral candidates learned acupressure at the Imperial Medical College. Acupressure spread to other parts of Asia, including Japan, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. It eventually reached Russia and parts of Europe, where it became the basis for other therapies such as Swedish massage.

Benefits

Acupressure is practiced throughout Asia for treating illness and promoting relaxation and overall wellness. Performing acupressure on the inside of the wrist can help reduce nausea. A study by the Institute for Health and Aging at the University of California San Francisco found that pressure on the inside of the wrist and the knee relieved nausea in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. A separate study by Lund University in Lund, Sweden, found acupressure to be effective in reducing vomiting and nausea during pregnancy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, acupuncture and acupressure are both effective in treating insomnia.

Warnings

Do not use acupressure if you have a heart condition or if you are pregnant, especially more than three months. Avoid acupressure on areas of the skin featuring moles, warts, varicose veins, bruises, cuts or other breaks in the skin. The American Cancer Society also warns against practicing acupressure in any areas near lumps or tumors. If you are sick, consult your doctor and do not use acupressure as your only form of treatment.