Pressure Point To Relieve Back Pain: Is It Possible?

Did you know that about eighty percent of our population is at risk of experiencing back pain? At some point in our lives, it might be inevitable to come across this situation. And because there’s such a large number of people facing its challenges, it’s no wonder that many of them are trying to pursue alternative treatments, such as acupressure. As a traditional Chinese medicine, the practice believes that it simply takes a simple compression on the pressure point to relieve back pain and help the body recover quickly.

Why Do We Experience Back Pain?

Back pain is something that all of us have been trying to endure over the years. It can begin from a simple discomfort that could progress into a more debilitating condition.

This concern can strike people of all ages for a variety of reasons. Suppose you spend a lot of time sitting, or maybe you are not fond of exercising. These habits can cause your back to build up a certain amount of pressure. In time, this pressure could affect complex structures, including muscles and bones. Because of this, you may start to feel significant pain across your upper and lower back areas.

What Is Acupressure?

Acupressure is an alternative medicine that integrates the application of tension to acupressure points. According to the laws of traditional Chinese medicine, the practice of adding pressure on a specific area can help improve blood flow across the body. It releases tight muscles, which helps relieve discomfort and stimulate the nerves to improve overall well-being.

While recent research and findings show support for acupressure, more testing is needed. These studies are necessary to further understand its potential to alleviate pain like toothache, back strain, and neck discomfort. Nonetheless, acupressure’s efficacy makes it an appealing choice for those who are seeking low-risk therapies.

What Happens in an Acupressure Treatment?

Acupressure involves methods similar to acupuncture. It works by unblocking the body’s vital force or life energy, also known as Qi. The Qi runs through specific channels in our body, which are more often called meridians. Within each meridian channel are hundreds of acupressure points that correspond to a particular system in our body.

According to the basic principles of traditional Chinese medicine, a body anomaly comes from a disruption in the flow of Qi. When specific interruptions take place, signs of discomfort will develop, including physical pain and mental distress.

What Should I Expect During the Procedure?

As a part of your acupressure treatment, you can expect to get a massage with gentle stretching exercises. Acupressure does not involve the use of needles. Instead, the practitioner uses their wrists, knees, hands, or fingertips to stimulate acupressure points. In cases that require dealing with a delicate acupoint, they use special devices to provide optimal pressure. One of the most common appliances is known as the wooden peg.

Can I Perform Acupressure Alone?

Acupressure treatment is usually performed by a qualified acupressure practitioner. However, you can also perform some basic acupressure methods in the comfort of your home.

If you want to relieve tension from your back area, we suggest trying the following tips:

Relax and Stay Focused

The first and most vital step is to find yourself in a comfortable place where you can position your body. Choosing a quiet environment that you can concentrate and relax is also a must. Afterward, you must start by finding your center. You can do so by taking a few deep breaths, relaxing your shoulders and jaws, and, if necessary, closing your eyes.

Apply Appropriate Amount of Pressure

Using your index finger, firmly press on a point following either an up-and-down or circular motion. Do this method for about one to three minutes at a time. It is best to make sure that you apply the necessary amount of pressure at the right acupoint.

Repeat the Motion

You can repeat this exercise as often as you want. According to experts, there are no risks in exceeding the activation of acupoints.

How Do I Identify the Pressure Point to Relieve Back Pain?

Acupressure focuses on specific pressure points to activate the body’s innate capacity to reduce various types of pain. Below are the six main acupressure points to help resolve upper and lower back pains.

Acupressure Point in the Stomach

You can locate this pressure point by placing two fingers below your belly button. Using your middle or index finger, apply firm pressure in this area for two minutes.

Pressure Points for Lower Back

If you often experience lower back pains, you can apply direct acupressure to these areas. You can find these points at the waist level of your spine. To locate these pressure points, place two finger widths from your spinal cord and see the other by placing four finger widths. These pressure points are present on both the left and right sides of your body.

You can trace the points by placing your hands on your waist and gently sliding your thumbs towards the spine while applying firm pressure.

Acupressure in Hip Bone

On both sides of the hip bone, these points are located. One point is about two finger widths from the broad bony region at the bottom of your spine, while the other is in the middle of your hipbone and the base of your buttocks. You can apply gentle pressure along with these two pressure points by placing your thumb or index finger.

Knee Acupressure Points

Two knee acupoints are in the middle of the knee’s backspace, while the other two are slightly found on the outside. To apply acupressure, you need to either sit or stand with your legs straight. Place your palm on the knee’s side and locate the points by pressing firmly. You can use your index or middle fingers to press the points.

Hand Pressure Points

Back pain may be relieved by using acupressure hand points when lying down. This point is two finger widths apart from the thumb and index finger joints. Using your other hand, gently squeeze the acupoint between your index finger and thumb. For a few seconds, apply firm pressure to the area, and then release. You can repeat this process four or five times more. For best results, you need to turn to the opposite side.

Acupoints on the Foot

Bend your right knee while lying down. Using your right hand, reach for your foot. The pressure point is two fingers’ width above the point where your prominent toe and second toe meet. Since this point is slightly sensitive, it is advisable to apply medium to high pressure with your thumb or index finger. Repeat this to the opposite foot.

A Word of Advice

If you happen to face the challenges of a severe case of chronic back pain, acupressure may not be the best choice for you. Despite the fact that this treatment has a long and high safety profile, it is always good to consult your doctor before doing it and other alternative medicine practices.

Suppose you want to avoid any unexpected side effects from your other medications. In that case, you must keep your doctor updated and create a treatment plan that best suits your needs.