The points are thought to be arranged along channels, called meridians. According to Asian medical philosophy, stimulating these areas can release tension and increase blood flow. The popular massage technique of Shiatsu massage is a form of Asian Bodywork Therapy from Japan.
Many Western spas and massage services have started offering acupressure massage. While many people are skeptical of acupressure’s efficacy, many doctors, practitioners, and advocates of holistic health believe in the positive effects of acupressure. For example, researchers at the UCLA Center for East-West Medicine study the scientific basis of acupressure while providing explanations and practical applications of the techniques. [4] X Research source Licensed acupressurists attend formal training programs, either at special acupressure and acupuncture schools, or through massage therapy programs. Look for an acupressurist who is an LAC (licensed acupressurist) and/or has an NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) license.
Hoku/Hegu/Large Intestine 4, which is the webbing between your thumb and forefinger. Liver 3, which is the soft flesh between your big toe and your second toe. Sanyinjiao/Spleen 6, which is on the lower calf. Many pressure points are called by multiple names, and sometimes designated by an abbreviation and number, like LI4 or SP6.
All pressure points connected to inducing labor should be avoided on a pregnant woman until after 40 weeks. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source There is a risk of applying pressure to the points that induce labor too early causing problems.
Pinch the webbing between your index finger and thumb. You will be focusing on the area towards the middle of your hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Apply steady, firm pressure to this point. Then, start rubbing a circle with your fingers. [8] X Research source When your hand gets tired, just shake it out and start again. When a contraction starts, stop rubbing the pressure point. Resume when the contraction passes. This pressure point is believed to aid in helping the uterus contract and the baby descend into the pelvic cavity. You can also use this during labor to help ease the sensation of contractions. [9] X Research source
Using your thumb or index finger, apply steady downward pressure to this point to massage and stimulate the area. You can also pinch the point between the thumb and index finger on your opposite hand, massage in a downward motion with the index finger for 4-5 seconds while releasing the pinch hold. This pressure point is also used for neck stiffness, headaches, shoulder aches, and pain. [10] X Research source
To locate this point, have the pregnant woman kneel on the floor or a bed. Drag your fingers down alongside the spine until you feel two small bony hollows (one on either side of the spine). These hollows will be between the dimples and spine - but not the dimples themselves. [11] X Research source Press your knuckles or thumbs into the BL32 pressure point for constant, steady pressure or rub in a circular motion. If you cannot find the hollow, measure the length of the pregnant woman’s index finger. BL32 lies approximately the length of index finger above the top of the buttock crease, approximately one thumb width to the side of the spine.
Locate the ankle bone. Place three fingers above the shin bone. Slide your fingers just off the shin bone towards the back of the leg. There will be a tender place just behind the shin. This spot is very sensitive in pregnant women. Rub in circles or apply pressure for 10 minutes, or until you have a contraction. Resume applying pressure after the contraction passes.
Find the spot between the ankle bone and the Achilles tendon. Press into the skin with your thumb and apply pressure or rub in a circle. [12] X Research source This spot is frequently used during the first stage of labor, when the baby hasn’t descended yet. BL60 is thought to increase circulation and relieve pain.
Take the pregnant woman’s foot in hand. Use your fingernail to apply pressure to the tip of the pinky toe, right under the toenail.
If you want to find out more about acupressure during pregnancy, find a licensed acupressurist. Schedule a visit and find out more to see if it is for you.
