The definition of pressure point varies depending upon the particular discipline of pressure point therapy: tender point, trigger point or acupressure. Acupressure therapists refer to pressure points involving nerves, the pinhead-size junctures where nerves connect, also called potent points. Lying along energy meridians, potent points act as gateways for the release of energy. Manipulation of acupressure points is the pressure point therapy traditionally used to relieve pain from injuries. The pain from a fractured hand can be reduced by acupressure.
Medical Treatment
When broken bones in a fractured hand are not properly aligned, a doctor or surgeon realigns the bones, called fracture reduction, and stabilizes them. The method of stabilizing the bones depends upon the fracture. A splint or cast is sufficient for many hand injuries. However, when surgery is required, stabilization can involve the use of rods and pins to keep the bones properly aligned. Medical doctors sometimes prescribe medications to relieve pain. Acupressure therapists relieve pain through stimulation of pressure points
Natural Pain Relief
Acupressure points conduct bioelectrical energy throughout the body. According to Acupressure.com, stimulating these points with pressure releases endorphins, the neurochemicals that relieve pain. Endorphins have a chemical structure similar to morphine, making them a natural defense against pain. Pressure points can be manipulated by digital touch, needles or heat. When needles are used, the treatment method is called acupuncture. Digital touch and heat are often used at the same time during acupressure treatment. Heat is applied first to relax the area, and then digital touch is used to release the chi, or energy, from the pressure point.
Meridians and Treatment
Acupressure points are located both in the area of injury, called local points, and in other areas of the body, called trigger points. Traveling along pathways called meridians, electrical impulses are connected to one another and to internal organs. Do not touch the injured area of your fractured hand. Instead, stimulate pressure points in other areas of your body. Stimulation of acupressure points relaxes muscles and increases blood flow, which aids in healing.
Safety
A key feature of acupressure is that individuals can stimulate pressure points on their own bodies to relieve pain and promote healing. Pressure point therapy is safe as long as certain cautions are observed. Abdominal points should be avoided when there is serious illness or pregnancy. Do not touch scars from injury or surgery for at least a month. Apply only light pressure, especially to lymph points, and keep warm following an acupressure session, due to the lowering of your body temperature.
