Acupressure is said to help with a range of conditions, from motion sickness to headache to muscle pain.
This article explains the procedure of acupressure massage and how pressure points are used.
It discusses the safety and side effects of acupressure, as well as research on acupressure benefits.
Garo / Phanie / Getty Images
Garo / Phanie / Getty Images
How Does Acupressure Work?
Acupressure is thought to treat blocked energy, although it remains uncertain exactly what acupressure does.
Some think the pressure may cause the release ofendorphins.
These are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.
Others think the pressure may influence theautonomic nervous system.
According to the principles of TCM, invisible pathways of energy called meridians flow within the body.
A practitioner applies pressure to specific acupressure points to restore healthy energy flow.
The points they choose depend on your symptoms.
Given how meridians run, pressure points used may be distant from the site of the symptom.
For example, an acupressurepoint on the footmay be used to relieve a headache.
What Are the Acupressure Points?
There are 361 pressure points on 14 meridians.
The points are the same as those used in acupuncture.
For example, the pressure point Neiguan (P-6) is primarily used to treat nausea and vomiting.
Move your thumb two finger-widths toward the elbow.
The point is between two large tendons, which you should be able to feel as you apply pressure.
A few other commonly used pressure points include:
What Is Acupressure Used For?
In a 2017 study, researchers looked at the effects of acupressure on pain and anxiety.
Subjects were athletes with a sports injury.
There was no change in anxiety.
A 2017 review analyzed the results of three trials in chemotherapy patients.
Researchers found that acupressure performed with fingers or an acupressure wristband decreased nausea, vomiting, and retching.
What Happens During an Acupressure Session?
Acupressure is often done by an acupuncturist.
you could also do acupressure on yourself.
It is best to learn proper technique from an acupuncturist.
you might also use the tip of a pen.
The pressure should be gentle but firm.
Increase the pressure for about 30 seconds.
Then hold it steady for 30 seconds to two minutes.
Next, gradually decrease the pressure for 30 seconds.
Repeat three to five times.
Do Acupressure Mats Work?
Acupressure mats are designed to improve circulation and reduce muscle pain.
Safety and Side Effects of Acupressure
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.
If you’re pregnant, talk to your care provider before trying acupressure.
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.
2014;26(1):40-49. doi:10.1089/acu.2013.1002
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Acupressure for nausea and vomiting.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Acupressure for Pain and Headaches.
2021 Apr 27;16(1):282. doi:10.1186/s13018-021-02398-2.
2022 Mar 24;22(1):87. doi:10.1186/s12906-022-03543-y.
2021 Mar;11(1):32-39. doi:10.1136/bmjspcare-2019-001937.
Macznik AK, Schneiders AG, Athens J, Sullivan SJ.Does acupressure hit the mark?
2017;10:CD002962.
