Have you ever held your forehead tightly when you have a headache? Or when your leg is tingling, we squeeze it a little, right? We do these things unconsciously. In fact, there is an ancient treatment method based on the concept that by applying pressure to certain points on our body, we can relieve certain diseases and pains. Today we are talking about this Acupressure treatment method that many people have heard of, but do not know exactly.
What is acupressure? What is the concept behind it?
Simply put, Acupressure is a thousands-year-old form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Some people call it "acupuncture without needles" because the principles of both methods are very similar.
The basic concept of this method is the idea of energy flow. Imagine that inside our bodies, like blood vessels, there is a network of channels through which energy flows that we cannot see. According to Chinese medicine, these are called energy channels (meridians) . A life force called 'qi' flows along these channels.
According to this concept, as long as this life force energy flows unimpeded in our bodies, we are healthy. However, if this energy pathway becomes blocked or unbalanced somewhere, it can lead to illness .
The hope of therapies like acupressure and acupuncture is to reopen those blocked energy pathways and balance the body's energy.
How is this Acupressure treatment done?
Here's what happens during an acupressure session. You will be made to lie down on a comfortable table, fully clothed. The practitioner will then use their fingers, palms, elbows, and sometimes even their feet to gently apply pressure to specific acupoints on your body. Sometimes this treatment may also include stretching and massage. A session usually lasts about an hour. For best results, several sessions may be needed.
How does Western science see this?
Now let's see what Western medicine has to say about this. To be honest, there is still no scientific evidence to support the existence of the so-called 'qi' energy or energy channels (meridians). However, it is true that some people find relief from acupressure. So scientists think that other factors may be the cause. For example:
- Muscle relaxation: When pressure is applied to a specific area, the tense muscles around it relax.
- Improved blood circulation: Compression can increase blood flow to the area, speeding up the healing process.
- Production of endorphins: Endorphins are natural painkillers produced by our brain. It is believed that acupressure stimulates their release. This can reduce pain.
What are the most commonly used acupressure techniques?
There are hundreds of such organs in our body. While it is impossible to discuss all of them, let's look at some of the main ones that are used most often.
| Point Name | Location | Often useful situations |
|---|---|---|
| LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) | The soft, fleshy part of the hand between the thumb and index finger. | Headache, toothache, neck pain. |
| LR-3 (Liver 3) | On the top of the foot, from the space between the big toe and the next toe up. | Stress, menstrual pain, anxiety. |
| SP-6 (Spleen 6) | On the inside of the leg, about three finger widths above the ankle bone. | Digestive problems, insomnia, menstrual cycle problems. |
| PC 6 (Pericardium 6) | Between the two large tendons on the inside of the wrist, towards the palm. | Nausea and vomiting (occurring during pregnancy, chemotherapy, and while traveling). |
What health issues are said to benefit from acupressure?
Research into the effects of acupressure is still ongoing, but based on patient experiences, this treatment method is believed to provide relief for the following health problems:
- Nausea and Vomiting: This is one of the best-documented benefits of acupressure. It can be especially helpful for nausea after surgery, during chemotherapy , morning sickness during pregnancy, and motion sickness. There are even special wristbands available that are designed to mimic the PC 6 threshold mentioned earlier.
- Cancer-Related Symptoms: In addition to reducing nausea during chemotherapy, some reports show that acupressure can help reduce stress, pain, and fatigue in cancer patients. This is not a cure for cancer, but it can help relieve the side effects of treatment.
- Pain: There is some evidence that acupressure can provide relief for conditions such as back pain, post-surgical pain, and headaches.
- Arthritis : Some studies suggest that acupressure may provide relief from some types of arthritis, as it releases endorphins and reduces inflammation.
- Depression and Anxiety: Several studies have suggested that acupressure may help reduce mood and fatigue, but more research is needed on this.
Are there any things to be careful about when receiving this treatment?
This is a very important part. Generally speaking, acupressure is a very safe treatment. However, if you have cancer, arthritis, heart disease, or any other chronic condition, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting this type of treatment. Also, make sure the person you choose to treat you is qualified and experienced.
Acupressure treatment should be avoided in the following cases:
- It is not appropriate to push into areas where there is a cancerous tumor or if the cancer has spread to the bones.
- If you have rheumatoid arthritis, a back problem, or a bone disease that can be made worse by physical stress.
- Avoid pressing on areas with varicose veins.
- During pregnancy: This is very important. Some acupressure (especially SP-6) can cause uterine contractions and premature labor. Therefore, if you are doing acupressure during pregnancy, you should only get treatment from someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in the subject. But it is safest to consult your doctor first.
Take-Home Message
- Acupressure is an ancient treatment method that improves health by applying pressure to specific points on the body.
- Although traditionally said to balance the flow of energy (qi), Western science suggests that it relaxes muscles, improves blood circulation, and produces natural painkillers (endorphins).
- It can help with things like nausea, some pain, and stress. However, it is not a miracle cure for all ailments.
- While this is generally safe, if you have any chronic conditions or are pregnant, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
- Always choose someone who is well-trained, experienced, and qualified for this treatment.
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