Acupressure is a convenient form of healing that can be practiced anywhere and does not require expensive equipment, according to the website ProHealth. This non-invasive healing modality is related to acupuncture in that it views healing as a process of balancing energy within meridians, or pathways, that traverse the body. These pathways are thought to connect the internal organs with each other and with the mental and emotional components that, together make up the individual, according to the website Acupressure.com. The World Health Organization says the many health conditions, including back pain, can be relieved through acupressure's gentle approach.
Useful Points
GB30 is a point at the posterior aspect of the hip, near the ball of the hip joint and a third of the way toward the outer edge of the sacrum ,according to the website Comp Wellness. Muscles that overlie the sciatic nerve, which comes from the low back, attach along this area and contact here can alleviate accumulated stress and tension in the back. UB 54 is an important point for back pain and is found at the back of the knee in the center. On the lower leg, SP6 is a point on the lateral side ("outside") of the leg a couple of inches above the ankle bone. UB60, which lies at the outside of the ankle, between the protruding bone of the ankle and the Achilles' tendon, are recommended points to use.
Techniques
Points can be contacted using fingertip pressure, or if preferred, with a blunt tool, such as the eraser end of a pencil. Apply sufficient pressure to elicit a level of sensation that is deep enough to be effective but not too uncomfortable to maintain in a calm setting. Stanford University recommends holding points for a few seconds, or up to two minutes, depending on the severity of the condition and treatment goals. It is recommended that sessions be repeated throughout the day, in the beginning phases of treatment, gradually lessening as the condition responds. Regular care over the long term will help prevent relapses.
Effects
From a Chinese medicine philosophy, pressing on acupressure points draws energy to or away from the area of complaint, thus balancing the flow of energy throughout the body, according to the website Mother Nature. This is thought to affect all aspects of health from the physical to the spiritual. A study of 129 chronic low back pain sufferers, published in the June 2006 Acupuncture Today, found acupuncture to be successful at alleviating back and leg pain and improving the patients' productivity at work and school, as well as boosting their overall quality of life, when compared with physical therapy treatment.
Cautions
It is advisable, when seeking care from a practitioner, to make sure she is licensed or certified. Acupressure is a helpful complementary form of treatment that can be successfully used together with most others. It is not necessary to discontinue medications while receiving acupressure. Do not make acupressure the only form of treatment you receive. For serious medical conditions or emergencies seek medical attention. Stanford University cautions that, while acupressure can be practiced on oneself or by family and friends, many states have laws restricting the practice of acupressure on the public without a license.
Contraindications
Certain points have the ability to induce uterine contractions and are, therefore, contraindicated in pregnancy. Acupressure should not be practiced directly before or after exercise or eating. The website Acupressure.com states that where there is damage to the skin, moles or warts, or a transmissible skin infection, acupressure points should be avoided. Serious medical conditions or emergencies require medical attention as the primary source of treatment. Do not attempt to replace or postpone medical care with acupressure in these situations.
References
- CompWellness: Acupuncture
- Acupuncture Today: Acupressure Patients Find Relief for Low Back Pain
- Stanford University: The Online Acupressure Guide
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture Research: World Health Organization
- ProHealth Library: Acupressure and Arthritis: Ancient Healing to Relieve Pain
