Top Ten Acupressure Points for Pain Relief & Other Problems

Acupressure therapy, sometimes called pressure acupuncture, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

It involves applying pressure to acupressure points that lie along meridians in your body to promote relaxation and treat illnesses. There are more than 400 acupressure points on the body.

It is believed that vital energy called qi (chi) flows through these meridians or energy pathways. There are 12 major meridians that connect specific organs, thus organizing a system of communication throughout the body. Illness occurs when one or more of these meridians are blocked or out of balance.

Most Western practitioners, however, attribute the benefits of acupressure to factors like reduced muscle tension, improved circulation and stimulation of brain chemicals called endorphins that act as natural pain relievers.

Irrespective of the underlying reason for its effectiveness, several studies have found this alternative therapy beneficial for relieving certain aches and pains.

The acupressure points are to be pressed with moderate pressure for a few seconds up to a couple of minutes and then released. For best results, take slow, deep breaths as you hold the acupressure points.