Acupressure Points Used in Acupuncture
Have you ever wondered how a professional acupuncturist knows where they should put the needles? If you were to ask a trained practitioner, they would probably tell you that the needles are inserted into acupressure points on the body. This is done to agitate the point and produce an effect. This article will be sharing a few of the points used in acupuncture, and for the purpose of this article, they will be divided into groups
based on the location.
Chest and Abdomen
Jian Jing – This point is found by using your thumb and middle finger to pinch the shoulder muscle, and is most often used for facial pain, stress, headaches, toothaches and neck pain. It is not usually recommended that you use this technique on pregnant women because it can start labor contractions prematurely.
Head, Scalp, and Shoulders
Feng Chi – A technique that has been associated with migraine relief, fatigue, certain types of blurry vision, neck pain, and stress. Some have even used this technique to aid with cold and flu symptoms. To locate Feng Chi, lock your hands behind your head with your thumbs pointed downward. Place both of your thumbs onto the base of your neck muscles and run your thumbs upward to the bone behind your ears. You should be able follow the groove that is created by the muscle.
Arms and Hands
He Gu – This position is extremely effective for stress and facial pain. If you want to find this point, you will find it on the side of your hand in behind the knuckle, near the place where your thumb and index finger meet. Press into the muscle and massage for 4 – 5 seconds.
Legs and Feet
Zu San Li
This spot is thought to help major organs like intestines, stomach, and liver. It is located on the outside of your lower leg, next to the top of your shin.
Tai Chong
This is an excellent area to stimulate for stress, low back pain, high blood pressure, limb pain, insomnia and emotional upset. To locate this pressure point, use your thumb to place pressure in between the tendons that extend to your big toe and the second largest toe.
San Yin Jiao
Generally used for pelvic disorders, insomnia, and menstrual cramps and can be found on the inside of your leg, just above your ankle. Find the highest point of the ankle then four finger widths up your leg, apply deep pressure slightly behind the bone.
Acupressure pressure points are documented to have healing effects. Here are 10 to remember that can help treat you right on the spot if you have aches and pains. So remember these pressure points.