Acupressure is a type of massage therapy in which manual pressure is applied to specific points on the body. It is a practice of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that is similar to acupuncture, except that it uses fingertip pressure instead of needles.
Acupressure is said to help with a range of conditions, from motion sickness to headache to muscle pain. TCM practitioners say acupressure benefits are achieved by using pressure points along the energy pathways in the body, to encourage the free flow of energy, or qi.
Acupressure is thought to treat blocked energy, although it remains uncertain exactly what acupressure does. Some think the pressure may cause the release of endorphins. These are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Others think the pressure may influence the autonomic nervous system. This is the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary things like your heart, digestion, and breathing.
According to the principles of TCM, invisible pathways of energy called meridians flow within the body. At least 14 meridians are thought to connect the organs with other parts of the body.
If qi is blocked at any point on a meridian, it's thought to cause health problems along that pathway.
A practitioner applies pressure to specific acupressure points to restore healthy energy flow. The points they choose depends on your symptoms.
Given how meridians run, pressure points used may be distant from the site of the symptom. For example, an acupressure point on the foot may be used to relieve a headache.
What are acupressure points, there key characters and few common acupressure points?
Acupressure points, also known as acupoints or acupuncture points, are specific locations on the body where Qi (vital energy) is believed to be accessible and can be influenced. These points are an essential aspect of acupressure and acupuncture therapies based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles.
Here are key characteristics of acupressure points:
Location: Acupressure points are specific anatomical locations on the body. They are typically found along meridians, which are energy channels that run throughout the body. Each acupoint has a unique name and a specific location based on its relationship to anatomical landmarks, such as bones, muscles, or other reference points.
Accessibility: Acupressure points are accessible from the surface of the body, allowing for external stimulation. Unlike acupuncture, which involves needle insertion, acupressure relies on manual pressure applied to these points. The points are often located in areas where there is a concentration of nerve endings, blood vessels, or areas that are sensitive to touch.
Functions: Each acupressure point is believed to have specific functions and therapeutic effects. According to TCM theory, stimulating these points can influence the flow of Qi and restore balance within the body. Different acupoints are associated with different organs, systems, or conditions. For example, some points may be used for pain relief, while others may target digestive issues or promote relaxation.
Meridian Connections: Acupressure points are part of a network of meridians, or energy pathways, in the body. The meridians are interconnected and correspond to specific organs or systems. The acupoints along these meridians are believed to be interconnected as well, allowing for the flow of Qi and the balancing of energy throughout the body.
Number and Classification: There are hundreds of recognized acupressure points in TCM, each with its own unique characteristics. These points are classified into different categories based on their locations, functions, and connections to specific meridians or organs. Some acupressure points are well-known and commonly used, while others may be more specialized or less frequently utilized.
There are 361 pressure points on 14 meridians. The points are the same as those used in acupuncture. All these respective pressure points are used for treatment for certain medical conditions.
Here is the visual representation of full body, feet, palm and face pressure points:
How is Acupressure different from Acupuncture?
Acupressure and acupuncture are both therapeutic techniques rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and they share the same theoretical foundation of balancing Qi, or vital energy, in the body. However, they differ in the method of stimulation used to influence the acupuncture points. Here are the main differences between acupressure and acupuncture:
Difference | Acupressure | Acupuncture |
Stimulation Techniques | Acupressure involves applying manual pressure, typically with the hands, fingers, or special tools, to specific acupuncture points on the body. | acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into the acupuncture points to stimulate them. |
Sensation and Sensitivity | Acupressure relies on the pressure applied to the points to influence the flow of Qi. It generally produces a deep, localized pressure sensation. | Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles, which may cause a brief sensation upon insertion, but typically minimal to no pain or discomfort thereafter. |
Precision and Depth | While still targeting specific points, acupressure does not require the same level of precision as there is no penetration involved. | Acupuncture requires specific knowledge and training to locate and needle the acupuncture points accurately. The needles can be inserted to various depths depending on the condition being treated. |
Practitioner Involvement | Acupressure can be self-administered or performed by trained practitioners, but it generally does not require the same level of training or certification as acupuncture. | Acupuncture is typically performed by trained acupuncturists who have an in-depth understanding of the meridians, acupuncture points, & needle insertion techniques. |
Acupressure can be easily practiced on oneself or administered by others. It can be used as a form of self-care or integrated into various bodywork practices. | Acupuncture, on the other hand, requires the expertise & skills of a trained acupuncturist & the application of needles should be performed by a qualified practitioner. |
Benefits of Acupressure:
Acupressure is believed to offer a range of potential benefits. While scientific research is ongoing, many people report positive experiences with acupressure. Here are some potential benefits associated with acupressure:
Improved Sleep: Acupressure is thought to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to improved sleep quality. By stimulating specific acupoints, acupressure may help calm the mind, ease restlessness, and promote a more restful sleep.
Pain Relief: Acupressure is commonly used to reduce discomfort and pain, whether it's related to sports injuries, chronic conditions, or everyday aches. By targeting acupoints, acupressure is believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Acupressure is known for its ability to induce relaxation and relieve stress. By applying pressure to specific points, acupressure may help balance the nervous system, release tension, and promote a sense of calmness, thereby reducing anxiety and stress levels.
Digestive Support: Acupressure may aid in treating various digestive issues. By stimulating specific acupoints, acupressure is thought to help regulate digestion, alleviate symptoms such as bloating or indigestion, and promote a healthier gastrointestinal system.
Chronic Pain Management: Acupressure has been used as a complementary approach to manage chronic pain conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain. It is believed to help reduce pain levels, improve circulation, and relax muscles and joints.
Muscle and Joint Relaxation: Acupressure can provide relief by targeting specific acupoints to relax muscles and alleviate tension. It is commonly used to soothe muscle knots, tightness, and joint stiffness.
Headache Reduction: Acupressure is frequently employed to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines. By applying pressure to specific acupoints, it is believed to relieve headache symptoms and promote overall relaxation.
Conditions where acupressure can be beneficial:
Acupressure is utilised to treat a wide range of maladies, issue and torment conditions. Basic diseases that react well to needle therapy incorporate: Weakness disorder, Headache & Migraine, Skin issues, Respiratory disarranges, Stomach related issue, Joint inflammation, Insomnia, Stress Management, Motion Sickness, Menstrual Cramps, Cancer related and other kind of fatigue.
Diseases can also respond well to acupressure treatment. It is effective in treating illnesses of the muscles, joints, and bones, collectively known as the musculoskeletal system. Whether you have chronic pain or pain caused by a recent accident, acupressure can significantly reduce your symptoms. For eg.
Osteoarthritis treatment: It usually affects the lower back along with the spine, as well as the hips, knees, shoulders, and elbows. Acupressure helps to relieve the pain produced by arthritis fluctuates.
Provides relief from sprains: Sprains and other types of unexpected injuries usually respond nicely to acupressure. This type of pain normally lasts a week or so. For example, if you have a sudden injury to your shoulders, the pain that results from it can continue for months or even years. Acupressure, on the other hand, can keep the discomfort from becoming chronic and provide immediate relief.
Helping with rheumatic pains: If you have rheumatism in its acute, early, and inflammatory stages, you will require treatment until the disease progresses to its residual stage, which can be effectively treated with acupressure. It also aids in the treatment of a variety of chronic pains, and as a result, many professionals recommend it.
Things to consider before/ during the acupressure session:
Acupressure should never be painful. If you feel any pain, tell your therapist at once.
Some people may feel sore or have bruises at acupressure points after a session. You may also feel lightheaded for a while.
Pressure should be gentle over sensitive areas, such as the face.
Acupressure should never be done over any of these areas: Open wounds, Bruises, Varicose veins, Swollen areas.
Acupressure treatment is not entirely advisable for pregnant women. There are specific treatment & therapies available for such persons, and they can safely take them.
Acupressure treatment is not advisable for young people and would be advised for people who are above 18 years of age.
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy in which pressure is applied to a specific point on the body. It is done to free up energy blockages said to cause health concerns from insomnia to menstrual cramps.
There isn't much research into the effects of acupressure. However, some studies do suggest it might help treat pain and nausea. Acupressure can be done by an acupuncturist, though you can also try doing it yourself (with proper instruction). Ask your healthcare provider for a green light to try it if you are pregnant or are managing a health condition.
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