Acupressure Point For Gerd

Acupressure is a form of Chinese medicine with the potential to alleviate symptoms of GERD. Specific acupressure points that relieve GERD are located on the abdomen, back, wrists, shin and foot. The main symptom of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is heartburn, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Other symptoms of GERD are chest pain, upper abdomen pain, feeling too full after eating, nausea after eating, vomiting and regurgitation. Lifestyle causes of GERD include a diet high in acidic foods, eating fatty foods, overeating and emotional distress. Other factors that cause GERD are certain medications, genetics and abnormalities in the stomach and esophagus. According to Michael Reed Gach in "Acupressure's Potent Points," acupressure is most effective at relieving symptoms of GERD that are caused by stress, depression, anxiety and other emotional disturbances. Consult with your doctor before using acupressure for GERD, especially if you have a life-threatening illness such as cancer or heart disease.

Abdomen

According to Gach, two acupressure points on the abdomen, CV12 and CV6, are used to alleviate indigestion and GERD. The point CV12 is on the mid line of the body, halfway between your breastbone's base and your belly button. CV6 is two finger widths under the belly button. CV12 specifically treats heart burn whereas CV6 alleviates abdominal pain, bloating and constipation, which may lead to GERD. Wait for two hours after eating before using these points. Do not massage CV12 and CV6 for longer than two minutes.

Back

Points B23 and B47 located on the back relieve indigestion, stomachaches and abdominal pain. Be careful putting pressure on these points if you have back pain, broken bones or any damage to your spine. Gach says these points are located two and four finger widths from the spine at your natural waist level.

Wrists

The acupressure point P6, located on your wrist, works well for stomachaches, indigestion, anxiety and nausea. About 2 1/2 finger widths below your wrist crease, P6 rests in the depression between the bones of your forearm. Acupressure points are found in depressions in the body and usually feel slightly tender when you press on them. Never press too hard on acupressure points. Instead, use a firm but gentle pressure.

Shins

Acupressure point St36, found on both shins, relieves general digestive issues, stomachaches and fatigue. St36 is located four finger widths down from the knee cap and one finger width away from the shin bone. Gach recommends briskly rubbing St36 for 30 seconds with the heel of your opposite foot.

Foot

Located on the arch of your foot, Sp4 relieves indigestion and abdominal cramps. Additionally, Sp4 helps with anxiety. Sp4 is on the arch, a thumb width down from the ball of the foot. By improving your overall digestive health, you decrease the likelihood of GERD episodes.