Specific bodily areas known as "pressure points" are believed to offer particular health advantages when massaged. Nearly 30 acupressure spots on the body can be used to ease stomach pain, enhance digestion, and more. The mid-back, ankle, kneecap, and navel can all provide relief.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners think that you can massage certain pressure points to relieve pain, ease stress, hasten the healing process, and more. Pressure points are frequently used in complementary and alternative medical techniques like acupressure and reflexology.
Numerous pressure points may be found all over the body, and some study suggests that they may be beneficial. You can see a specialist to target specific regions or try massaging some of your own pressure points at home.
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What is Acupressure?
Pressure points on the hands and feet that "map onto" other bodily areas, including internal organs or a broader region like the back or chest, are referred to as such in reflexology. For instance, the liver may be represented by one tiny spot on the foot and the lungs by another. Practitioners of reflexology think that by applying a specific amount of pressure to a point, the area of the body that the point corresponds to can experience relief and healing.Acupoints, sometimes referred to as pressure points, are also frequently applied in acupuncture and acupressure, which is a needle-free technique that is comparable to acupuncture. According to these traditions, pressure points are locations where "Qi," or life force, can enter and leave the body. Acupressure practitioners and traditional Chinese medical professionals believe that applying pressure or mass to pressure points helps to enhance the flow of Qi throughout the body. In order to alleviate pain, lower stress levels, and other issues, some people also self-massage pressure points.
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How Many Acupressure Points are There in Our Body?
For acupuncture and acupressure, there are 361 standardised acupoints. There might be more pressure points than those that have been identified thus far, though. There may be thousands of acupoints, according to some studies, while others contend there are more than 400.One of the twelve main meridians, or "passageways," in the body is where pressure points are found in traditional Chinese medicine.6. According to certain theories, obstructions may develop along these meridians, stopping or altering your energy flow and leading to health issues. You might be able to clear the "blockage" and improve the flow by applying pressure to certain locations.
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What are the Various Acupressure Points?
The human body has hundreds of pressure points, each of which is thought to represent a specific organ, body part, function, or goal. Some of the most often used acupressure sites for abdominal discomfort are as follows:-
Zusanli (ST36)
- Location: About 3 inches below the kneecap, 1 inch toward the outer edge.
- Benefits: Upper abdominal health, energy regulation, and nervous system support.
- How to Use:
- Use two fingers to apply light, circular pressure.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes, then switch legs.
2. Sanyinjiao (SP6)
- Location: Inside the ankle, 3 inches above the highest point of the inner ankle bone.
- Benefits: Supports lower abdominal organs and calms the nervous system.
- How to Use:
- Apply firm, circular pressure with one or two fingers.
- Repeat on the opposite leg for 2–3 minutes.
3. Qihai (CV6)
- Location: 1.5 inches below the navel, on the body’s midline.
- Benefits: Boosts overall energy and lower abdominal health.
- How to Use:
- Gently massage in a circular motion for 2–3 minutes.
- Avoid applying excessive pressure.
4. Zhongwan (CV12)
- Location: Approximately 4 inches above the navel.
- Benefits: Promotes upper abdominal and digestive organ health.
- How to Use:
- Use two fingers to apply gentle circular pressure.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes.
5. Weishu (BL21)
- Location: 1.5 inches outward from either side of the spine, 6 inches above the lower back.
- Benefits: Alleviates abdominal pain and supports gastrointestinal health.
- How to Use:
- Apply light pressure with one or two fingers in a circular motion.
- Avoid this point if you have spinal issues.
How do Acupressure Points Work?
There is considerably contradicting clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of pressure point massage. Pressure points have been shown in certain experiments to be useful in treating specific ailments, but not in all. But research is still being done. The best results from acupressure are often seen when combined with other therapies.Conclusion
When massaged, pressure points—specific body sites are believed to correlate to other body parts—may provide relief. The most common applications for pressure point massage carry significance in complementary and alternative medicine, including acupressure, reflexology, and traditional Chinese medicine.There is not a lot of research on the advantages of acupressure, and clinical studies on pressure points. However, there is some evidence that applying pressure on certain points of the body helps to alleviate a number of ailments, including anxiety, sleeplessness, nausea, and pain. If you're experiencing persistent issues like gas, bloating, or acidity, consulting the best gastroenterologist in Mumbai can help you understand how acupressure can complement your treatment plan.
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FAQs
Q1: Are there any side effects of acupressure?A: Acupressure is non-invasive and generally free of side effects. However, applying too much pressure or using it on injured or sensitive areas may cause discomfort.
Q2: Can acupressure replace medication for acidity and gas?
A: Acupressure can be an effective complementary therapy but should not replace prescribed medication. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe symptoms.
Q3: How often should I perform acupressure for acidity and gas relief?
A: You can perform acupressure 1–2 times a day or as needed when symptoms arise. Regular sessions can also help maintain overall digestive health.
