Acupressure Techniques – Some Basics

Acupressure is one popular form of alternative medicine with the same principles as acupuncture. The basis is the belief on concept of life energy flowing through “medians” in the body. Currently, it is popular among its growing adherents, and acupressure techniques are also growing in variety.

Techniques

In acupressure techniques, various techniques are used in the treatment. This includes pressing, rubbing, gentle stretching, rolling, chafing, kneading wiping and grasping. This also includes several corrective exercises

The techniques consists of varying levels of pressure in use, most often starting by applying light pressure and gradually working deeper. The practitioner can focus on either of the pressure or energy on a specific point (or series of points) in the body of the patient, depending on the patient’s chief complaint.

Hand points

After the point has been located and the fingers are positioned right on the spot, the practitioner gradually leans on his weight to wards the point to apply pressure. This reduces strain when the weight of the practitioner is used to apply the pressure.

The pressure is then directed perpendicularly to the surface. This is held for some minutes until a regular pulse or until the sores of the muscle area decreases. This is finished off with a soothing touch.
.

Light Touch

In terms of therapeutics, light touch is regarded as more effective in treating acute conditions while the deeper touch is considered better for chronic conditions. Deep touch is believed to have an intense sensation, the application should be considered within the client’s tolerance of discomfort.

The temptation is to massage or rub the entire area, it is best to hold the point steadily with direct finger pressure.

Rule of thumb

The basic rule of thumb for practitioners is to apply slow and firm pressure at a 90 degrees angle from the surface of the skin. If the skin is pulled, then the angle of the pressure is not correct. After which, the practitioner should direct the pressure into the center of the part of the body that is being worked on.

It is important to apply and release the finger pressure gradually. This allows the tissues enough time to respond, which promotes healing. The practitioner’s concentration when moving his fingers slowly into and out of the point makes the treatment more effective.

Feeling the pulse

After the repeated acupressure session using different degrees of pressure, the pulse begins to appear on the point. This pulsation is good because it means that circulation has increased. If the pulse is yet very faint or throbbing, have the point held for longer times until the pulse balances.

For the practitioner, if the hands get tired slowly withdraw the pressure from the point, gently shake out yo9ur hand, and couple this some few deep breaths. When you’re ready, go back to the point and gradually apply pressure until you reach the depth where it hurts good.

Press directly onto the painful site and follow and stay with it until you feel a clear, regular pulse or until the pain decreases, confirmed by your client. acupressure techniques can be learned.

Comments