Difference between revisions of "Do Acupressure"
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| − | {{fa}}Acupressure is an Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) with roots in ancient Chinese medicine. Acupressure uses the basic concept of chi: the energy that flows through the body following lines called meridians. These meridians can be accessed at specific points that allow one to manipulate the flow of energy.<ref>http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/acupressure-points-and-massage-treatment</ref> | + | {{fa}}Acupressure is an Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) with roots in ancient Chinese medicine. Acupressure uses the basic concept of chi: the energy that flows through the body following lines called meridians. These meridians can be accessed at specific points that allow one to manipulate the flow of energy.<ref name="rf1">http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/acupressure-points-and-massage-treatment</ref> |
[[Category:Pain Management and Recovery]] | [[Category:Pain Management and Recovery]] | ||
== Steps == | == Steps == | ||
===Understanding Acupressure=== | ===Understanding Acupressure=== | ||
| − | #Understand the concept of acupressure. Acupressure is an Asian Bodywork Therapy developed over 5,000 years ago. Acupressure relies on finger placement and pressure along pressure points on the body.<ref | + | #Understand the concept of acupressure. Acupressure is an Asian Bodywork Therapy developed over 5,000 years ago. Acupressure relies on finger placement and pressure along pressure points on the body.<ref name="rf1" /> |
| − | #*The points are believed to be arranged along channels, called meridians. Stimulating these areas is believed to release tension and increase blood flow.<ref>http://www.acupressure.com/articles/acupuncture_and_acupressure_points.htm</ref> | + | #*The points are believed to be arranged along channels, called meridians. Stimulating these areas is believed to release tension and increase blood flow.<ref name="rf2">http://www.acupressure.com/articles/acupuncture_and_acupressure_points.htm</ref> |
| − | #*Some people believe that acupressure and other Asian body therapies correct imbalances and blockages of the flow of vital energies through our bodies.<ref | + | #*Some people believe that acupressure and other Asian body therapies correct imbalances and blockages of the flow of vital energies through our bodies.<ref name="rf1" /> |
| − | #Learn what to use acupressure for. Acupressure is used for a variety of ailments. One of the most common uses is to relieve pain, such as [[Use-Acupressure-Points-for-Migraine-Headaches|headaches]] and neck and [[Use-Acupressure-for-Back-Pain|back pain]]. People also use acupressure to help with [[Stop-Nausea-With-Acupressure|nausea]] and vomiting, fatigue, mental and physical stress, [[Use-Acupressure-for-Weight-Loss|weight loss]], and even addiction. Acupressure is believed to cause deep relaxation and a decrease in muscle tension. <ref>http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03230/Acupressure.html</ref> | + | #Learn what to use acupressure for. Acupressure is used for a variety of ailments. One of the most common uses is to relieve pain, such as [[Use-Acupressure-Points-for-Migraine-Headaches|headaches]] and neck and [[Use-Acupressure-for-Back-Pain|back pain]]. People also use acupressure to help with [[Stop-Nausea-With-Acupressure|nausea]] and vomiting, fatigue, mental and physical stress, [[Use-Acupressure-for-Weight-Loss|weight loss]], and even addiction. Acupressure is believed to cause deep relaxation and a decrease in muscle tension. <ref name="rf3">http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03230/Acupressure.html</ref> |
| − | #*Many doctors, practitioners, and advocates of holistic health believe that acupressure has positive and healing effects on the body.<ref>http://www.heathersholistichealth.com/acupuncture-acupressure.asp</ref> UCLA has a Center for East-West Medicine that studies the scientific basis of acupressure. They try to provide explanations and practical applications of the techniques.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/wellness/acupressure-and-common-acupressure-points/</ref> | + | #*Many doctors, practitioners, and advocates of holistic health believe that acupressure has positive and healing effects on the body.<ref name="rf4">http://www.heathersholistichealth.com/acupuncture-acupressure.asp</ref> UCLA has a Center for East-West Medicine that studies the scientific basis of acupressure. They try to provide explanations and practical applications of the techniques.<ref name="rf5">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/wellness/acupressure-and-common-acupressure-points/</ref> |
| − | #*To become a licensed acupressurist, one must go through a rigorous program at special acupressure and acupuncture schools. They can also go through massage therapy programs. These programs include study of anatomy and physiology, acupressure points and meridians, technique and protocol, and Chinese medicine theory, . These programs require up to 500 hours of schooling.<ref>http://www.naturalhealers.com/natural-health-careers/article/acupressure/</ref> | + | #*To become a licensed acupressurist, one must go through a rigorous program at special acupressure and acupuncture schools. They can also go through massage therapy programs. These programs include study of anatomy and physiology, acupressure points and meridians, technique and protocol, and Chinese medicine theory, . These programs require up to 500 hours of schooling.<ref name="rf6">http://www.naturalhealers.com/natural-health-careers/article/acupressure/</ref> |
#Dedicate time to acupressure. If you want to use acupressure, you need to repeat the steps over time. The techniques have a cumulative effect on the body. Each time you manipulate the pressure points, you help balance your body. | #Dedicate time to acupressure. If you want to use acupressure, you need to repeat the steps over time. The techniques have a cumulative effect on the body. Each time you manipulate the pressure points, you help balance your body. | ||
| − | #*Some people may see results immediately, some may need several treatments. Although immediate pain relief may occur, the pain can return. This is considered normal. Acupressure is not an immediate fix. It is technique you can use to help ease pain by decreasing blockages and restoring your body to a balanced condition.<ref>http://www.stress-away.com/Doing%20Acupressure.htm</ref> | + | #*Some people may see results immediately, some may need several treatments. Although immediate pain relief may occur, the pain can return. This is considered normal. Acupressure is not an immediate fix. It is technique you can use to help ease pain by decreasing blockages and restoring your body to a balanced condition.<ref name="rf7">http://www.stress-away.com/Doing%20Acupressure.htm</ref> |
#*You can apply acupressure as frequently as you want. Multiple times a day or even multiple times an hour. As you continually manipulate a point, you may feel a lack of pain as it begins to heal. | #*You can apply acupressure as frequently as you want. Multiple times a day or even multiple times an hour. As you continually manipulate a point, you may feel a lack of pain as it begins to heal. | ||
| − | #*Most people suggest practicing acupressure every day. If that is impossible, then practice at least 2-3 times a week.<ref>http://www.acupressure.com/articles/Applying_pressure_to_acupressure_points.htm</ref> | + | #*Most people suggest practicing acupressure every day. If that is impossible, then practice at least 2-3 times a week.<ref name="rf8">http://www.acupressure.com/articles/Applying_pressure_to_acupressure_points.htm</ref> |
===Applying Acupressure Correctly=== | ===Applying Acupressure Correctly=== | ||
| − | #Use the right amount of force. Use a deep, firm pressure when you are stimulating the points.<ref | + | #Use the right amount of force. Use a deep, firm pressure when you are stimulating the points.<ref name="rf5" /> The amount of pressure you place onto your body depends on your overall health. When pressing, you might feel a bit of soreness or pain, but it should be a balance between pain and pleasure. |
#*Some points will feel tense; others will feel sore or ache when you press them. If you feel extreme or increasing pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you feel a balance of pain and pleasure. | #*Some points will feel tense; others will feel sore or ache when you press them. If you feel extreme or increasing pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you feel a balance of pain and pleasure. | ||
| − | #*Do not think of acupressure as increasing your endurance to pain. If something is so painful it's too uncomfortable or excruciating, then stop.<ref | + | #*Do not think of acupressure as increasing your endurance to pain. If something is so painful it's too uncomfortable or excruciating, then stop.<ref name="rf8" /> |
| − | #Use the correct pressing aids. Acupressure most commonly uses the fingers to massage, rub, and stimulate the pressure points. Knuckles, elbows, knees, legs, and feet can also be used.<ref>http://www.acupressure.com/index.htm#acupressure</ref> | + | #Use the correct pressing aids. Acupressure most commonly uses the fingers to massage, rub, and stimulate the pressure points. Knuckles, elbows, knees, legs, and feet can also be used.<ref name="rf9">http://www.acupressure.com/index.htm#acupressure</ref> |
#*The middle finger is the best for applying pressure to the pressure points. It is the longest and strongest of your fingers. People also use the thumb, too. | #*The middle finger is the best for applying pressure to the pressure points. It is the longest and strongest of your fingers. People also use the thumb, too. | ||
#*To correctly manipulate a pressure point, use something blunt. For some pressure points, the fingers may be too thick. Objects that have a 3-4 mm thickness, like used pencil eraser, are ideal. Other objects you can use are an avocado pit or a golf ball. | #*To correctly manipulate a pressure point, use something blunt. For some pressure points, the fingers may be too thick. Objects that have a 3-4 mm thickness, like used pencil eraser, are ideal. Other objects you can use are an avocado pit or a golf ball. | ||
| − | #*Some pressure points can be pressed using a fingernail.<ref>http://pointfinder.org/classic/</ref> | + | #*Some pressure points can be pressed using a fingernail.<ref name="rf10">http://pointfinder.org/classic/</ref> |
#Press the area. When you press the area, you are reinforcing it. This is the most common acupressure method. To do this, use a blunt object. Don't rub or massage the area; instead, hold the point with steady pressure. | #Press the area. When you press the area, you are reinforcing it. This is the most common acupressure method. To do this, use a blunt object. Don't rub or massage the area; instead, hold the point with steady pressure. | ||
| − | #*If you are pulling the skin, the angle of the pressure is incorrect. You want to apply the pressure at the center of the point.<ref | + | #*If you are pulling the skin, the angle of the pressure is incorrect. You want to apply the pressure at the center of the point.<ref name="rf8" /> |
#*Make sure to press on the right spot. These acupressure points are very small, so they have to be precise. If you don't feel any effects, then try different spots. | #*Make sure to press on the right spot. These acupressure points are very small, so they have to be precise. If you don't feel any effects, then try different spots. | ||
| − | #*When performing acupressure, you want to look for sore pressure points. If there is no blockage, you won't feel any effect from pressing the point and won't need to treat it.<ref | + | #*When performing acupressure, you want to look for sore pressure points. If there is no blockage, you won't feel any effect from pressing the point and won't need to treat it.<ref name="rf7" /> |
| − | #*Relaxing can also help emphasize the effects.<ref>http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/howto.php</ref> | + | #*Relaxing can also help emphasize the effects.<ref name="rf11">http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/howto.php</ref> |
| − | #Press for the appropriate length of time. Acupressure employs steady presses to the pressure points. By pressing a point for only half a second, your body will start to respond. This is a good way to try to find the pressure points when just beginning.<ref | + | #Press for the appropriate length of time. Acupressure employs steady presses to the pressure points. By pressing a point for only half a second, your body will start to respond. This is a good way to try to find the pressure points when just beginning.<ref name="rf11" /> |
#*To get the full effect of acupressure, press for at least 2-3 minutes. | #*To get the full effect of acupressure, press for at least 2-3 minutes. | ||
| − | #*If your hand gets tired, slowly withdraw the pressure, shake your hand, and breathe deeply. Then reapply the pressure.<ref | + | #*If your hand gets tired, slowly withdraw the pressure, shake your hand, and breathe deeply. Then reapply the pressure.<ref name="rf8" /> |
#Release the pressure point gradually. After holding the pressure point for the desired amount of time, slowly release the point. Don't just yank your hand away. Releasing the point gradually is believed to allow the tissues to heal by giving them time to respond to the release in pressure. | #Release the pressure point gradually. After holding the pressure point for the desired amount of time, slowly release the point. Don't just yank your hand away. Releasing the point gradually is believed to allow the tissues to heal by giving them time to respond to the release in pressure. | ||
| − | #*Most believe that the gradual pressing and releasing of pressure points help make the treatments more effective.<ref | + | #*Most believe that the gradual pressing and releasing of pressure points help make the treatments more effective.<ref name="rf8" /> |
#Perform acupressure when your body is in the right state. Acupressure should be performed when you are relaxed, preferably in a private place. You can sit or lie down when administering acupressure. Try to cut out outside distractions and stress. Turn off cell phones and play relaxing music. Use aromatherapy. Try any technique that will promote relaxation. | #Perform acupressure when your body is in the right state. Acupressure should be performed when you are relaxed, preferably in a private place. You can sit or lie down when administering acupressure. Try to cut out outside distractions and stress. Turn off cell phones and play relaxing music. Use aromatherapy. Try any technique that will promote relaxation. | ||
#*Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Any kind of restricting clothing, like belts, tight pants, or even shoes, can obstruct the circulation. | #*Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Any kind of restricting clothing, like belts, tight pants, or even shoes, can obstruct the circulation. | ||
#*You shouldn't use acupressure techniques right before a big meal or on a full stomach. Wait for at least an hour after eating so that you don't get nauseated. | #*You shouldn't use acupressure techniques right before a big meal or on a full stomach. Wait for at least an hour after eating so that you don't get nauseated. | ||
| − | #*Don't drink iced drinks because that can counteract the effects of acupressure. Instead, drink hot herbal tea afterwards.<ref | + | #*Don't drink iced drinks because that can counteract the effects of acupressure. Instead, drink hot herbal tea afterwards.<ref name="rf8" /> |
| − | #*Wait at least half an hour after heavy exercise or taking a bath.<ref | + | #*Wait at least half an hour after heavy exercise or taking a bath.<ref name="rf10" /> |
===Learning Common Pressure Points=== | ===Learning Common Pressure Points=== | ||
| − | #Try Gallbladder 20. Gallbladder 20 (GB20), also called Feng Chi, is recommended for headache, migraines, eye blurriness or fatigue, low energy, and cold or flu symptoms. GB20 is located in the neck.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-gb20/</ref> | + | #Try Gallbladder 20. Gallbladder 20 (GB20), also called Feng Chi, is recommended for headache, migraines, eye blurriness or fatigue, low energy, and cold or flu symptoms. GB20 is located in the neck.<ref name="rf12">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-gb20/</ref> |
#*Clasp your hands, then open them while keeping your fingers laced. Form a cup shape with your palms. You will use the thumbs to massage the pressure point. | #*Clasp your hands, then open them while keeping your fingers laced. Form a cup shape with your palms. You will use the thumbs to massage the pressure point. | ||
#*To find this pressure point, place your interlocked hands behind your head. Use your thumbs to find the depressions at the base of your skull. They should be about 2 inches from the middle of your neck. These depressions will be below the skull and beside your neck muscles. | #*To find this pressure point, place your interlocked hands behind your head. Use your thumbs to find the depressions at the base of your skull. They should be about 2 inches from the middle of your neck. These depressions will be below the skull and beside your neck muscles. | ||
#*Press your thumbs in and slightly upwards towards your eyes. | #*Press your thumbs in and slightly upwards towards your eyes. | ||
| − | #Use Gallbladder 21. Gallbladder 21 (GB21), also called Jian Jing, is commonly used to treat pain, neck stiffness, shoulder tension, and headaches. GB21 is located in the shoulder.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-gb21/</ref> | + | #Use Gallbladder 21. Gallbladder 21 (GB21), also called Jian Jing, is commonly used to treat pain, neck stiffness, shoulder tension, and headaches. GB21 is located in the shoulder.<ref name="rf13">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-gb21/</ref> |
#*Drop your head forward. Find the round knob at the top of the spine, and then the ball of your shoulder. GB21 is located halfway between these two places. | #*Drop your head forward. Find the round knob at the top of the spine, and then the ball of your shoulder. GB21 is located halfway between these two places. | ||
#*Use your finger to apply steady downward pressure to this point. You can also press the point between the thumb and index finger with your opposite hand. Then, massage the spot in a downward motion with the finger for 4-5 seconds while releasing the hold. | #*Use your finger to apply steady downward pressure to this point. You can also press the point between the thumb and index finger with your opposite hand. Then, massage the spot in a downward motion with the finger for 4-5 seconds while releasing the hold. | ||
#*Use caution with this acupressure point on pregnant women. This pressure point is [[Use-Acupressure-to-Induce-Labour|used to induce labor]]. | #*Use caution with this acupressure point on pregnant women. This pressure point is [[Use-Acupressure-to-Induce-Labour|used to induce labor]]. | ||
| − | #Learn Large Intestine 4. Large Intestine 4 (L14), also called Hoku, is commonly used for stress, facial pain, headaches, toothaches, and neck pain. L14 can be found on the hand between the thumb and the index finger.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-li4/</ref> | + | #Learn Large Intestine 4. Large Intestine 4 (L14), also called Hoku, is commonly used for stress, facial pain, headaches, toothaches, and neck pain. L14 can be found on the hand between the thumb and the index finger.<ref name="rf14">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-li4/</ref> |
#*To stimulate this area, apply pressure on the webbing between your index finger and thumb. Focus on the area towards the middle of your hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Apply steady, firm pressure as you pinch. | #*To stimulate this area, apply pressure on the webbing between your index finger and thumb. Focus on the area towards the middle of your hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Apply steady, firm pressure as you pinch. | ||
#*This pressure point has also been associated with inducing labor. | #*This pressure point has also been associated with inducing labor. | ||
| − | #Use Liver 3. Liver 3 (LV3), also called Tai Chong, is recommended for stress, lower back pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps, limb pain, insomnia, and anxiety.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-lv3/</ref> It is located in the soft flesh between your big and second toes.<ref>http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/acupressure-points-and-massage-treatment?page=2</ref> | + | #Use Liver 3. Liver 3 (LV3), also called Tai Chong, is recommended for stress, lower back pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps, limb pain, insomnia, and anxiety.<ref name="rf15">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-lv3/</ref> It is located in the soft flesh between your big and second toes.<ref name="rf16">http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/acupressure-points-and-massage-treatment?page=2</ref> |
#*Find the point by going two fingers lengths above where the skin of your big toe and second toe join. Using a blunt object, press firm pressure to this point. | #*Find the point by going two fingers lengths above where the skin of your big toe and second toe join. Using a blunt object, press firm pressure to this point. | ||
#*This must be done with the shoes off. | #*This must be done with the shoes off. | ||
| − | #Try Pericardium 6. Pericardium 6 (P6), also called Nei Guan, is recommended to relieve nausea, upset stomachs, motion sickness, carpal tunnel syndrome, and headaches. It is located just above the wrist.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-p6/</ref> | + | #Try Pericardium 6. Pericardium 6 (P6), also called Nei Guan, is recommended to relieve nausea, upset stomachs, motion sickness, carpal tunnel syndrome, and headaches. It is located just above the wrist.<ref name="rf17">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-p6/</ref> |
#*Place your hand so your palm is facing you with your fingers towards the ceiling. Lay the first 3 fingers of your opposite hand across your wrist. Touch your thumb to your wrist just below your index finger. You should feel 2 large tendons. | #*Place your hand so your palm is facing you with your fingers towards the ceiling. Lay the first 3 fingers of your opposite hand across your wrist. Touch your thumb to your wrist just below your index finger. You should feel 2 large tendons. | ||
| − | #*Use both your thumb and forefinger to press this point. Make sure to apply this technique to both wrists.<ref>http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/resources/acupressure-nausea-and-vomiting</ref> | + | #*Use both your thumb and forefinger to press this point. Make sure to apply this technique to both wrists.<ref name="rf18">http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/resources/acupressure-nausea-and-vomiting</ref> |
| − | #Learn Stomach 36. Stomach 36 (ST36), also known as Zu San Li, is commonly used for gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, stress, boosting your immune system, and fatigue. It is found below the kneecap.<ref>http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-st36/</ref> | + | #Learn Stomach 36. Stomach 36 (ST36), also known as Zu San Li, is commonly used for gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, stress, boosting your immune system, and fatigue. It is found below the kneecap.<ref name="rf19">http://exploreim.ucla.edu/chinese-medicine/acupressure-point-st36/</ref> |
#*Place 4 fingers below your kneecap on the front of your leg. Below your fingers, you should feel a depression between the shinbone and leg muscle. The point is outside of the bone. | #*Place 4 fingers below your kneecap on the front of your leg. Below your fingers, you should feel a depression between the shinbone and leg muscle. The point is outside of the bone. | ||
| − | #*Press this point using a fingernail or thumbnail. This helps you can closer to the bone.<ref>http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/points.php?name=ST-36</ref> | + | #*Press this point using a fingernail or thumbnail. This helps you can closer to the bone.<ref name="rf20">http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/points.php?name=ST-36</ref> |
| − | #Use Lung 7. Lung 7 (LU7), also called Lieque, is used for head and neck pain, sore throat, toothache, asthma, coughing, and overall immune health. It is located on the arm.<ref>http://www.acupuncture.com/education/points/lung/lu7.htm</ref> | + | #Use Lung 7. Lung 7 (LU7), also called Lieque, is used for head and neck pain, sore throat, toothache, asthma, coughing, and overall immune health. It is located on the arm.<ref name="rf21">http://www.acupuncture.com/education/points/lung/lu7.htm</ref> |
| − | #*Make a thumbs up. Find the depression at the base of your thumb where two tendons are. The pressure point is about a thumbs width away from that spot, along the side of your arm where you feel a bone sticking out.<ref>http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/points.php?name=LU-7</ref> | + | #*Make a thumbs up. Find the depression at the base of your thumb where two tendons are. The pressure point is about a thumbs width away from that spot, along the side of your arm where you feel a bone sticking out.<ref name="rf22">http://www.eclecticenergies.com/acupressure/points.php?name=LU-7</ref> |
#*Press. You can use the nail of your thumb or index finger. | #*Press. You can use the nail of your thumb or index finger. | ||
== Tips == | == Tips == | ||
*Many simple acupressure remedies can be self administered. See a professional acupressure practitioner for longstanding, complex, or severe illnesses or pain. | *Many simple acupressure remedies can be self administered. See a professional acupressure practitioner for longstanding, complex, or severe illnesses or pain. | ||
| − | *Don't use the pressure point if it is under a mole, wart, varicose vein, abrasion, bruise, cut, or any other break in the skin.<ref | + | *Don't use the pressure point if it is under a mole, wart, varicose vein, abrasion, bruise, cut, or any other break in the skin.<ref name="rf10" /> |
== Warnings == | == Warnings == | ||
| Line 71: | Line 71: | ||
*This information is not intended as a substitute for qualified medical advice. | *This information is not intended as a substitute for qualified medical advice. | ||
*Do not attempt any new treatments without discussing it with your health practitioner. | *Do not attempt any new treatments without discussing it with your health practitioner. | ||
| − | *While you can help others and receive help with acupressure, keep it to family and friends. Most states have laws against practicing massage or medical care without a license.<ref | + | *While you can help others and receive help with acupressure, keep it to family and friends. Most states have laws against practicing massage or medical care without a license.<ref name="rf10" /> |
== Related Articles == | == Related Articles == | ||
