Acupressure is a healing art, similar to acupuncture, that is based on a system of energy meridians, or pathways, which traverse the body and interconnect the organs and systems, according to acupressure philosophy, into a unified physical, mental, and emotional being. This form of medicine recognizes all of these aspects of an individual as reflecting each other, so that physical symptoms are, in part, a manifestation of discord in the mental and emotional components and mental and emotional imbalances can also stem from dysfunction on the physical level. As a holistic approach, acupressure can help many conditions, including some forms of back pain, according to Stressaway Accupressure, a Snowflake, Arizona, clinic. As with all alternative treatments, though, acupressure should not be used as a substitute for consultations with a traditional physician, since many symptoms can he signs of serious underlying health conditions.
Tools
Technique options for the application of acupressure include fingertip pressure, knuckles, elbows or a blunt object, typically the pencil end of an eraser, or even the palm of the hand. Also, a specialized handheld tool with a rounded end, as used by massage therapists, can be obtained. Which tool is used depends on the point being contacted, the level of sensitivity of the point, the desired level of specificity, and, if the treatment is being given from one person to another, the level of personal privacy required. With any tool, pressure should be no deeper than is tolerable, but deep enough to elicit a noticeable change in sensation, according to SolveYourProblem.com. Also, since acupressure points have more than one effect, look for signs of improvement, or pleasant side effects, in conditions unrelated to the one being treated.
Treatment Timing and Frequency
Treat at regular and frequent intervals, employing spot treatments for a few minutes several times throughout the day, until the condition begins to resolve and stabilize and then taper off. The website Comp Wellness recommends holding a tolerable level of steady pressure for five seconds at a time, up to a minute, while Stanford University recommends holding a point for 15 to 30 seconds. Regular treatments over the long term will prevent relapse and progressive worsening. Acupressure is regarded as relatively safe and it is difficult to overdo this type of therapy, however, as with all endeavors, overzealousness can be detrimental. Rest in between sessions and avoid activities that worsen the condition.
Types of Pressure
Points that elicit pain are thought to have excess energy, while points that feel better with pressure are thought to be energy deficient. The Free Dictionary describes three primary techniques for contacting acupressure points, depending on the desired effect on the energy meridians. Where there is too little energy, also known as weak chi, firm steady pressure will bring energy into the area. This is called "tonifying." To decrease energy where there is stagnation or excessive energy, a counterclockwise rotational movement is employed and this is known as "dispersing." And, finally, a gentle stroking motion with the palm is used as a "calming" technique.
