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How to Identify Common Pressure Points in Acupressure

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

As an alternative therapy, acupressure shares similarities with acupuncture and reflexology. All focus on pressure points of the body to alleviate a wide range of ailments and to promote better health. Once you learn the location of common pressure points, you can treat yourself with acupressure.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Look for pressure points located at major muscle groups. Using fingers, feel for a knot in an indentation at the muscle.

  2. Step 2

    Identify pressure points by their location and a number used by acupressurists. For example, GB-30 stands for Gallbladder 30, located in the gluteal area and used to increase joint movement.

  3. Step 3

    Remember some of the 400 pressure points of the body through the translation of Chinese names. For example, the "Letting Go" points at the outer part of the upper chest release tension and stress.

  4. Step 4

    Manage coughing with the LU-9 pressure point on the inside of your wrist. Press on the depression between the pulse point and the tendon from your thumb.

  5. Step 5

    Address digestive problems with ST-36, also known as "Leg Three Miles." Locate it four fingers below the knee in the depression on the outside of the leg between the bone and muscle.

  6. Step 6

    Care for low back pain with several different pressure points, including the "Sea of Vitality" or Bladder 23 near the waist at the second lumbar vertebrae of the back, four finger widths from the spine.

Tips & Warnings
  • Apply firm and constant pressure using your finger or thumb in acupressure treatments.
  • Acupressurists recommend breathing deeply and visualize letting go of negativity while applying pressure on the points.
  • If you want to use acupressure for many different ailments, invest in an acupressure points chart from a good text or the Acupressure Institute.
  • As an alternative therapy, acupressure hasn't been proven effective with all ailments. Consult a health practitioner for recent or serious pain.
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