The National Cancer Institute or NCI, categorizes acupressure as a complementary and alternative medicine, defining it as "the application of pressure or localized massage to specific sites on the body to control symptoms such as pain or nausea." A study by University of California Professor Suzanne Dibble on the use of acupressure to control nausea as a result of chemotherapy produced promising results, according to a report published by NCI. However, acupressure is not a substitute for medical care.
Acupoints
Medical practitioners, technicians and therapists use acupuncture to treat many illnesses. Acupressure is a form of acupuncture using massage rather than needles. Acupressure practitioners apply deep firm pressure to trigger points in the body, called acupoints. The acupoints for treating various medical conditions are the same in acupuncture and acupressure.
Preparation
Before performing acupressure on yourself or another, trim your fingernails. Apply talcum powder or massage oil to the skin at and surrounding the applicable acupoints. Although acupressure can be vigorous, initial sessions with new patients are generally gentle. Self-treatment should also be gentle.
Firm-Pressure Technique
The most fundamental acupressure technique involves using knuckles, thumbs, fingers, palms or the sides of the hands to apply steady stationary pressure to acupoints. To relieve pain or relax an area of the body, therapists gradually apply pressure and then hold steadily for several minutes. To stimulate an area, they apply pressure for just 4 or 5 seconds. The middle finger is best suited for applying self-acupressure because it is the longest and strongest.
Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu, the best-known acupressure technique, applies deep-probing firm finger pressure to appropriate acupoints for 3 to 5 seconds. Shiatsu can be vigorous.
Slow-Motion Kneading
With this technique, therapists squeeze large muscle groups firmly using thumbs, fingers and heels of the hands. The technique is similar to kneading dough for bread or pizza, except that therapists employ the weight of their upper bodies.
Quick Tapping
To stimulate muscles on tender areas of the body, such as the face, therapists apply quick taps with their fingertips. For larger areas of the body, such as the buttocks or back, they use loose fists. Quick tapping can improve the functioning of sluggish muscles and nerves.
Other Finger-Pressure Techniques
Additional commonly used acupressure techniques include brisk rubbing, grasping, patting, pushing, scrubbing, rub rolling and wiping.
Finger and Hand Aids
If applying acupressure when your hand is weak or painful, try using your fist or knuckles instead. Other options include using a simple tool such as the eraser end of a pencil, a golf ball or an avocado pit to place pressure on acupoints. Additional acupressure tools with protuberances or bumps include acuballs, energy rollers, foot rollers, spin rollers and power mats.
Medical Considerations
Do not use acupressure on yourself or another just before or within 20 minutes following heavy exercise, a large meal or bathing. Consult a physician before using acupressure on anyone with a life-threatening disease, serious cardiac condition, leukemia or tuberculosis.
Consider the medical history of your subject and avoid applying acupressure on skin over an artificial joint or on the abdomen or lower back of a woman who is menstruating or is pregnant. Do not use acupressure on skin that is hot to the touch or swollen from a new injury. Avoid treatment on bruised, burned or cut skin. Moles, warts, varicose veins and recently formed scars should not receive acupressure. Do not use acupressure on areas of the skin with a rash.
Warnings
Acupressure can be a helpful complementary treatment, but it is not a substitute for medical care.
If the treatment doesn't feel good, reduce the pressure. If it still doesn't feel right, discontinue acupressure.
Body temperature goes down after an acupressure session. Keep the subject warm after a session is over.
Most states in the U.S. require licensing of massage therapists, including those who practice acupressure.
Member Comments