Roland Späht - 27.06.2022
Reading time: 12 min
Acupressure: effect, treatment, self-healing
Akupressure is a form of alternative medicine originates from traditional Chinese medicine. In this healing method, pressure is applied to specific points on the body. This is often done for pain relief or therapeutic purposes and is closely related to acupuncture.
It is believed that acupressure points are areas where the flow of energy Qi is blocked to the body's pathways. Applying pressure to these points is thought to unblock the flow of energy along these meridians and improve health.
If you have ever received a massage, you may have already experienced the benefits of acupressure. Massage therapists often use pressure points to relieve pain and tension in muscles. Acupressure massage can be performed with the fingers, thumbs, elbows, or other tools such as acupressure pins or woods. It is a relatively safe and gentle form of therapy that the following physical ailments:
- For pain relief
- To improve blood circulation
- To relieve stress and tension
- To promote relaxation
- To improve digestion
- To strengthen the immune system
- To relieve nausea
- To relieve headaches and migraines
There is some scientific evidence to support the use of acupressure for pain relief. A study published in the Journal of Pain found that acupressure can be used effectively to relieve chronic pain in people with knee osteoarthritis.
Another study found that acupressure can be helpful in relieving headaches and has a positive effect. However, more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of acupressure in as a healing method for other health conditions. Here you can find more studies on acupressure.
If you want to try acupressure it is advisable to consult a qualified therapist. This is especially important if you have a health problem that could be aggravated by incorrect application of pressure.
Table of contents
- How does acupressure massage work?
- Find acupressure points
- Acupressure points list
- Side effects of acupressure
- For whom is acupressure suitable?
- Conclusion
How does acupressure massage work?
To start self-treatment, please follow these tips. It is important to avoid pressure points that are sore or inflamed. Pressure should be applied gently and gradually increased until you feel numbness, heaviness or tingling. This sensation is called de-qi and is considered a sign that the acupressure point has been correctly located. The pressure should be held for two to three minutes.
After that, you can release the pressure and move on to the next point. There are many different acupressure points on the body. A qualified therapist will be able to identify the points that are most likely to help you.
You can also find diagrams of acupressure points on the Internet. If you want to try self-acupressure, it is best to start with points that are easy to find and not too sensitive.
Points on the hands and feet are often a good place to start for self-treatment. Remember to apply gentle pressure and gradually increase the pressure. If you find a sore or inflamed point, avoid it. If you have health problems, ask your doctor before trying acupressure. However, acupressure is generally considered safe.
However, there is a risk of bruising or pain if the pressure points are not placed correctly. If you are pregnant, avoid acupressure points on the lower abdomen. As with any therapy, it is always best to consult a qualified therapist.
However, there is a risk of bruising or pain if the pressure points are not placed correctly. If you are pregnant, avoid acupressure points on the lower abdomen. As with any therapy, it is always best to consult a qualified therapist.
An acupressure mat is a type of acupressure device that can be used to relieve pain and tension and is an alternative to the traditional one.
It consists of a series of plastic spikes embedded in a foam or coconut fiber mat. When applied to the body, the spikes are said to release energy flow and improve health.
Acupressure mats are available online and in stores. The effects of the acupressure mat have now been proven in studies. Many use them to relieve pain, tension headaches and muscle discomfort.
Find acupressure points
There are a number of points on the body where acupressure massage can be applied for pain relief or therapeutic purposes. The most commonly used points are on the hands, feet and ears.
To find these points, simply feel for them with your fingers. You should feel a slight indentation or pressure point.
Once you find the point, apply light pressure with your finger. You can also use a pencil or other object to apply pressure.
To find the exact point, some practice is necessary.
It is best to try it out. Your body will send you signals when you find the acupressure point. It may cause pain when pressure is applied or it may cause an immediate feeling of well-being.
Acupressure points list
Below you will find a list of the most common meridians through which the life energy Qi flows and the corresponding acupressure points. This overview is very suitable for acupressure self-treatment.
Lung meridian: Lie Que (Lu7)
Point 7 on the lung meridian is located in the extension of the thumb, laterally about 1.5 thumb widths behind the wrist crease, just behind the wrist bone. Pressure on this point is said to release energy flow and relieve pain.
It is often used to treat headaches, neck and shoulder pain. Also for asthma and breathlessness. Press this firmly on the point with thumb for 1-2 minutes and then repeat on the other side.
Bladder meridian: Shen Shu (Bl23)
Point 23 (Shenshu) is located on the back, just below the waist. This point is used to treat kidney problems, such as diseases of the urinary tract. To find this point, locate the lower edge of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra. From this point, move 4 finger widths (about 1 inch) to the side and slightly downward.
The point is located in the muscle tissue.
To apply this point, press firmly with your thumb or index finger for 1-2 minutes. When you first apply pressure to this point, you may feel a dull ache. If you continue to apply pressure, the pain should subside.
Bladder meridian: Weiz Hong (Bl40)
The bladder meridian is one of the twelve primary meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. Point 40, also known as Weizhong, is located on the bladder meridian and is used to treat a variety of ailments such as headaches, back pain, knee pain, nausea, diarrhea and fatigue.
The Weizhong is located in the cavity of the bladder, on the outside of the fibula head, in a depression when the foot is flexed (center of the flexion crease of the knee joint).
Large intestine meridian: He Gu (Di4)
The large intestine meridian runs along the outside of the arm and up to the head. Hegu is located between the thumb and index finger, at the highest point of the muscle when both fingers are brought together. This point is used to treat headaches, toothaches and neck pain.
It is also used for inflammations, fever, nosebleeds and digestive problems. If you are pregnant, please refrain from acupressure of this point. Press the point between the index finger and thumb for about 1-2 minutes.
Stomach meridian: Tay Yi (Ma23)
Tai Yi, also known as stomach meridian point 23, is located on the stomach meridian line. This point is said to be helpful for stomach pain, indigestion and other ailments. It is also said to help in the self-healing of blockages in the body's energy flow.
Tai Yi is located two thumb widths above the navel and two thumb widths to the left and right of this point. Apply pressure on this point for a minute or two to relieve stomach pain or indigestion.
Heart meridian: Shen Men (He7)
The heart meridian begins at the inner corner of the eye and runs through the center of the body to the heart. The Shen Men is located on the wrist crease in the extension of the little finger. It is associated with the emotions, including joy, love and happiness.
Shenmen is an important point on the heart meridian. It is sometimes called the "spirit gate" because it is believed that this is where the spirit enters the body.
Shen Men is considered a very effective point for relieving stress and anxiety and is often used in acupuncture and acupressure treatments.
When you feel stressed or anxious, try pressing on Shen Men for a few minutes. You can also massage the point with circular movements. You may feel a tingling sensation when you press on the point. This is normal and means that the point is working.
Spleen meridian: Point 6 (San Yin Jiao)
San Yin Jiao, also known as "Three-Yin Junction", is an important acupressure point on the lower leg. It is believed to relieve pain and promote healing. San Yin Jiao is located on the inside of the leg, about three thumb widths above that of the inner ankle.
This point is especially good for menstrual cramps, but can also be used for stomach aches, diarrhea, constipation and fatigue. Applying pressure to this point is said to improve spleen function and relieve pain. Press both sides of the body for one to two minutes.
Stomach meridian: To San Li (Ma36)
Point 36 (Zu San Li) is located on the lower leg, below the knee. It is used to treat a variety of problems such as indigestion, constipation and diarrhea. It is also used to relieve pain, improve blood circulation and strengthen the immune system.
To find point 36 (Zusanli), place your hands on your hips and place your thumbs in the indentations below your waist. From here, move your hands down the sides of your legs until you reach a point about four finger widths below your kneecap. This point should feel soft to the touch. Press on this point for about a minute and then release. Repeat as needed.
Liver meridian: Tai Chong (Le3)
The liver is an organ that is essential for many functions in the body. Among other things, it filters toxins from the blood and produces bile, which helps digest fats. The liver also stores glucose as glycogen and releases it into the blood when needed.
The liver meridian is a pathway through which energy flows and is responsible for regulating many bodily functions Point 3 (Tai Chong) is located on the foot, in the ligament between the big toe and the second toe.
This point is used to treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, fatigue, anxiety, and digestive problems.
It is also said to improve blood circulation and increase energy levels. The Taichong, stimulate with the thumb for two minutes. It is best to do this in the morning and evening for maximum benefit.
Small intestine meridian: Ting Gong (Dü19)
Ting Gong point is located on the small intestine meridian, right at the temporomandibular joint. It is an important point for relieving pain, improving digestion, hearing problems, inflammation of the ears and tinnitus. You can stimulate the Ting Gong point by applying pressure with your finger for 1 - 2 minutes. You can also massage the point in circular movements.
Kidney meridian: Tai Xi (Ni3)
The Kidney meridian is one of the most important meridians of the body. Point 3, also known as Tai Xi, is located on the kidney meridian and is considered an important point for releasing blockages in the flow of energy. It is stimulated for neck, tooth and back pain, tinnitus, asthma, insomnia, menstrual cramps.
Acupressure point 3 is located between the inner ankle and the Achilles heel. Once you find this point, apply firm pressure with your thumb or finger for 1-2 minutes. Repeat the process with the other leg.
3-fold warmer: Wai Guan (3E5)
Waiguan point is located on the forearm, halfway between the wrist and elbow. It is considered a 3-fold heat point, which means that it is used to treat problems related to heat. It is often used to treat fever, inflammation and heat stroke.
To find the Wai Guan point, bend your arm so that your hand is palm up. With your other hand, feel for a muscle that runs from the base of your thumb to your elbow. The Wai Guan point is located on this muscle, in the hollow between the tendons about 3 thumb widths above the wrist crease.
To treat a problem with the Wai Guan point, press on the point with your thumb for several minutes. You can also massage the point in a circular motion.
Gallbladder meridian: Feng Chi (Gb20)
The gallbladder meridian begins at the outer corner of the eye and runs down the side of the head, neck and chest before ending at the fourth rib. Point 20, also called Fengchi, is located on this meridian at the base of the skull.
The Feng Chi acupressure point (GB20) is often used to relieve headaches, neck pain and dizziness.
It is also said to strengthen the immune system, improve circulation and relieve stress.
To find Feng Chi (GB20), feel for the base of the skull right at the spine. Then go about two thumb widths to the left and right. Apply firm pressure to the point with your thumb or index finger for 1-2 minutes. You can also massage the point in circular movements.
Side effects of acupressure
Side effects of acupressure may include pain, bruising and discomfort. It is important to be careful when applying pressure to sensitive areas of the body. Acupressure should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Consult a doctor before starting any new treatment method.
For whom is acupressure suitable?
Acupressure is suitable for people of all ages and can be used to treat a variety of ailments. It is a safe and gentle therapy that can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Acupressure massage should not be used on pregnant women or people who are pregnant.
It should also not be used if you have a pacemaker, are taking blood thinners, or have a history of bleeding disorders. If you have any further questions, please consult your therapist before using acupressure.
Conclusion
Acupressure is a safe and gentle alternative therapy from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that can be used to treat a variety of ailments. It is a good alternative for maintaining one's health and strengthening self-healing powers.
It is important to be careful when applying pressure to sensitive areas of the body, and acupressure should not be used as a substitute for traditional medical treatment. It is advisable to consult with a therapist before beginning self-treatment.
About the author
Roland Späht is the founder of BACKLAxx® and a content strategist. He had already been struggling with back pain since childhood due to scoliosis. After studying engineering, he worked in project management for years and during this time he intensively dealt with the treatment of his worsening back pain.
His goal was to fight his way out of this downward spiral of pain without medication and permanent medical treatment. In this way he found ways and means for himself that permanently relieved his pain. He is firmly convinced that everyone can find an alternative way out of pain.
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