Many of us are familiar with the ancient practice of acupuncture. Dating back over 2000 years, it has stood the test of time as a way to reduce pain and to enable the body to heal by the stimulation of various meridians, or electrical points. Although it is more widely accepted in the East, there have been enough studies conducted in Western countries that have validated these claims.
One meta-analysis done found conclusive proof that acupuncture was effective in reducing chronic pain in the back and neck and from osteoarthritis, as well as chronic headache and shoulder pain.
Unfortunately a lot of insurance companies don’t cover the cost of acupuncture. Also, some people have an aversion to the idea of having needles stuck into them. Acupressure is a useful alternative. In a systematic review of research, acupressure was deemed to be effective for relieving pain in various conditions. In one study on people suffering from lower-back pain, they experienced relief through the self-administration of acupressure.
Action – There really is no wrong way to do this. You will know how much pressure feels good and also you will instinctively skip parts of your body that are too sensitive. A light touch can be therapeutic and doing acupressure doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. It is best to get a chart of different pressure points on the body to find how to treat various conditions, but here are a few simple ones to get you started.
Steps – For a headache, press the point that lies between the web of the thumb and first finger using the thumb and first finger of the other hand. Use as much pressure as is comfortable but noticeable and hold for at least five seconds. Release and repeat three more times and increase the pressure as needed. You can also increase the length of time as desired up to a few minutes.
For lower back pain, lightly grab your waist and wrap your thumbs around your back. Begin to massage in a small circular pattern using firm pressure. Again, do this for a minimum of five seconds and repeat three times.
To relieve stomach pain, make a fist with one hand to find the two tendons that are on the inside of the wrist. Relax the hand and, using your other thumb, apply pressure about two inches down from the wrist and between the two tendons to relieve pain.
These are just a few examples of the four hundred points that exist. There are many charts to help you learn more about specific points for different conditions, and many books as well.
Why It Makes You Feel Better – Acupressure may work by releasing endorphins or other hormones in the body, or it might have an influence on the energy flow in the nervous system. Either way, it has been used for 2000 years and research has shown it to be effective. When administered to yourself, it is a free treatment that feels good. It is also an opportunity for self-care and a great way to slow down and relieve stress.
Example – Setting up a routine where you regularly perform acupressure is the best way to realize the benefits. Whether you do it while watching tv or while waiting in line for something, performing it consistently is what is important. Many acupressure points are accessible on the hands, arms and neck so it can be done almost anywhere.
Take advantage of this ancient therapy and see what benefits you get. Anything that can help reduce pain is an invaluable tool for healing.