Synonyms
Chinese: Zen Jui; Tuina; An-Mo (pressure discs) lat. : acus = needle and premere = press
Definition/introduction
Acupressure is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine. Through targeted massage at acupuncture points, a healing effect is achieved for mild and moderate disorders and diseases. Thus, in contrast to acupuncture, the layman can also treat himself. This makes acupressure ideal for the treatment of small “everyday aches and pains”.
History
The history of acupressure goes hand in hand with the development of acupuncture. Both forms of therapy are part of TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and have been used there for over 6000 years. Since acupressure is the gentler method (no stinging), it is assumed that it is perhaps also the older method.
In China it is called “An-Mo” or “Tuina”. The guiding principle of acupressure is based on the idea that all energy (Qi) of the body flows in energy channels, the so-called meridians. If an imbalance or disharmony occurs due to external or internal factors such as cold, strain, stress etc., the body becomes ill. Acupressure is intended to restore the balance by applying gentle pressure from certain points on these meridians and to ensure that the energy flows again.
Diagnosis
Before any self-treatment by acupressure, an exact diagnosis must be made by the treating physician in order to prevent serious or malignant diseases from being masked or not recognized. Therefore, any acupressure for self-help should be discussed in advance with the attending physician. Acupressure is also not a substitute for acupuncture treatment or conventional therapy, but a supplement and support of other healing methods.
The acupressure therapist obtains a reliable diagnosis either by applying the methods of TCM or by using electrical devices, which are widespread in Europe. Either way – the diagnosis should be established before the treatment. Acupressure is mainly used for pain conditions and diseases of the locomotor system.
Further areas of application are: The technique of acupressure is simple, quick to learn and with a little practice it becomes routine. Most points are so-called trigger points (pain points of tense muscles). For self-treatment it is best to lie down in a quiet place (in bed or on a couch).
But you can also remain sitting. Then you look for the pain-sensitive points on your body and press gently but firmly with your fingertip on this point. Circular movements should be performed.
You have to press strongly but treat very sensitive points only gently. If no area is sensitive to pain, use the area described. If you get the wrong point, it does not hurt.
It can only happen that the treatment does not have the desired effect because acupressure is completely free of side effects. The duration of the treatment varies. You should massage one point at home for at least 30 seconds.
The trained acupressure therapist treats the near points in the area of the illness for 30-60 seconds per point and the far points on the arms and legs for 1-2 minutes. In total, an acupressure treatment takes about half an hour and can be repeated several times a week. In general, the effect of acupressure is not as profound as that of acupuncture, but its effectiveness has been proven by studies, especially for headaches.
There is also no doubt about its beneficial influence on internal organs and the self-healing powers. Nevertheless, acupressure should not be used on damaged bones, muscles or organs, or on diseased, inflamed areas of the skin and cardiovascular complaints. – Headaches/MigraineMigraine
- Stress-related complaints such as sleep disorders, tiredness, fatigue
- Hiccups
- Paranasal sinus diseases, nosebleeds
- Joint and muscle complaints
- Digestive disorders
- Circulatory problems
- Metabolic diseases
- Diseases of the respiratory tract/lung
- Back Pain
- Joint Pain
- Chronic pain