Best Acupressure Points For Headaches, Arthritis And Menstrual Pain Relief

Learn the best acupressure points for headaches, arthritis and menstrual pain relief. Check out the article we found over at Top 10 Home Remedies.

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.

1. Leg Three Miles- for Stomach Problems

The Leg Three Miles (ST 36) acupressure point is commonly used to improve digestive disorders including indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Plus, it boosts the immune system, fights fatigue, strengthens the body and promotes general wellness.

Bend your leg and place your fingers just below the knee cap, beginning with the index finger at the base of the knee cap. You will find the Leg Three Miles point at four finger-widths down from the base of the knee cap, where your little finger rests just to the outside of the shin bone.

Apply moderate to deep pressure on this point for a few seconds daily. You can press this point on both legs at the same time.

2. Commanding Middle- for Arthritis and Sciatica

This knee back acupressure point (B 54) is beneficial for reducing knee and back pain; stiffness in the back; arthritis in the knee, back and hips; and sciatica pain.

A study published online by the British Medical Journal in 2006 noted that acupressure may be more effective than physical therapy for relieving low back pain. The researchers also found that the effects of the therapy were not short term because, in fact, they lasted for six months.

Commanding Middle acupressure point is situated at the center of the backside of the knee cap. Gently press it for about 1 minute and then repeat on the other leg. Do this daily, as needed.

3. Sacral Points- for Menstrual Pain

Sacral acupressure points are great for relaxing the uterus and relieving menstrual cramps. It also helps reduce sciatica and lower back pain.

The bunch of sacral points is located on the sacrum, that is, the base of the spine directly above the tail bone. Simply lie down on your back with your hands under the base of your spine. Place one hand on top of the other so as to apply steady and firm pressure on the sacral points for a couple of minutes.

4. Joining the Valley-for Headaches

The Joining the Valley (L 14) acupressure point is popular for getting rid of headaches. It also helps relieve toothaches, neck pain, shoulder pain, arthritis, constipation and hangovers.

This point is located in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger, at the highest spot of the muscle when both the thumb and finger are brought close together. Press and massage this point for a couple of minutes and then repeat on the other hand. Do this as needed.

Note: Do not press this acupressure point during pregnancy.