Acupressure is the alternative medical practice of applying pressure to specific spots on the body to help promote the flow of energy -- also known as chi -- and to help relieve a number of ailments, including cramping. You can perform acupressure treatment on yourself as long as you can reach the pressure points. Otherwise, have someone else press the pressure points for you. Speak to your doctor before beginning any type of alternative medicine to ensure the treatment is suitable for you.
Menstrual Cramps
Acupressure can help relieve some of the agonizing physical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. Cramping is a common effect of the syndrome that can cause considerable discomfort and pain. According to FitnessMagazine.com, you can relieve menstrual cramps by pressing a few finger-widths from the middle of the sacrum. This spot is located on your back between the tailbone and lumbar spine. You'll likely need someone else to effectively press the spot for you. The pressure helps relax the uterus, allowing cramping to resolve.
Constipation
Cramping due to constipation is often uncomfortable and painful. Constipation can be treated with acupressure at several points on the abdomen. The first two points, known as SP15, are located at the intersections of the nipple and belly button lines. To locate SP15, draw one finger straight down from your nipple while drawing another finger from your belly button straight across until the two fingers meet. Do this from the other nipple to locate the second SP15 point. Point CV6 is located two finger-widths below the belly button. Points LIV3 are located on top of your feet and below your toes, between the big and second toes. Press these points firmly with one finger and apply deep strokes for about one minute each. The initial feeling may be painful but should subside quickly.
ST36
The acupressure point stomach 36 or ST36 is, according to AlbanAcupuncture.com, one of the most important and commonly used acupressure points to treat a range of health problems, including cramping. Point ST36 is located on your legs. Find the bump on your bone below your knee. Feel around to the bottom of this bump, known as the tibial tuberosity, and move one thumb's width to the outside of the leg to locate ST36. Gently massage this point with the tips of your index and middle fingers, making small circles on it. Gentle massage of ST36 can help improve digestion and relieve constipation, while stronger stimulation can help treat stomach aches and menstrual cramping.
Precautions
Massage therapies such as acupressure are generally considered a safe and effective way to treat various health problems. Pregnant women and diabetics, however, should take certain precautions when engaging in acupressure treatments. A number of acupressure points are not suitable for pregnant women to use as they may induce premature labor. If you are a diabetic, be sure to check your blood sugar levels before and after the therapy to ensure it did not cause a significant drop. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people with heart or kidney failure, leg blood clots, bleeding disorders and contagious skin conditions should avoid receiving acupressure massage therapy.
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