Some researchers believe that acupressure originated in China thousands of years ago, and there are ancient uncovered artifacts that show this healing technique practiced as early as the Neolithic Age!
In China, acupressure is often used to relieve post surgery nausea and vomiting in children. It also is known to alleviate nausea in cancer patients after undergoing chemotherapy. It can be administered anytime anywhere without the need for special equipment.
As long as you are familiar with the instructions given to you by a qualified acupuncturist or acupressure therapist, you can safely administer acupressure on yourself and on others. Acupressure allows the body to relax, alleviates pain and tension, and enhances blood flow throughout the body, if it’s properly done. It can also foster wellness and reinforce your immune system.
This therapy should be done gently and slowly since performing it too vigorously or quickly can result in some damage, particularly when it is applied in the stomach area. Extra caution and care is essential when the therapy is administered on pregnant women or on people suffering from recent injuries, infections, or burns.
In many ways, for most patients suffering from low back pain, acupressure has been proven to be more effective than physical therapy. Acupressure therapy on the ear can help alleviate anxiety and stress. Body acupressure can help lessen anxiety and fear of pre-operative care patients and in victims of trauma.
These are the conditions that can be potentially treated with Acupressure:
• Migraine Headaches
• Tension Headaches
• Shoulder and Neck Pain
• Earache, Toothache, Jaw Pain
• Arm Hand, and Wrist, pain
• Loss of Voice, Sinus Infection, Sore throat, Flu, Colds,
• Foot, Ankle, Knee, Hip, and Back pain and ache
• Nervousness and Panic Attacks
• Allergies
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Hiccups
• Fainting
• High Blood Pressure, Heart Palpitations, and Angina
• Poor Concentration and Memory
• Painful Periods and PMS
• Stomach pain, Heartburn, Diarrhea and Constipation
• Urinary retention, Incontinence, Bed-wetting
• Hangover, Low Libido, Asthma, Itching, Nose bleeds
• Morning Sickness, Pregnancy Discomfort, Hot Flashes
Anyone can learn to administer acupressure at home to augment/complement professional treatment. It is especially helpful when you suddenly experience pain or illness and you can’t immediately go to the doctor.
Jamie Catlett is a licensed and board certified acupuncturist in Jacksonville, FL and the founder of Jacksonville Acupuncture Clinic.