Acupressure, an ancient healing method from traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for thousands of years to help people relax, feel better, and improve their overall health. However, its precise biological basis remains uncertain, hindering acupuncture research and delaying its integration into medical care. Acupressure therapy, sometimes called ‘pressure acupuncture,’ operates on the same principles as acupuncture but does not use needles. Instead, it primarily uses finger pressure on specific pressure points to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
According to a health-focused website, the body contains hundreds of acupressure points, each with distinct medical benefits. Three commonly used points are mentioned: these points are associated with energy pathways known as meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine, there are 12 main meridians in the body, each linked to an organ or group of organs. These channels help regulate the flow of vital energy called ‘Qi’ in the body. If the flow of Qi is disrupted, it may cause illness or pain. Pressing on acupressure points in the body helps balance yin and yang (complementary forces), relieve pain and tension, remove blockages, and increase energy flow.
The primary aim of acupressure is to restore the body’s energy balance. Some believe that acupuncture may also improve mental health, in addition to treating physical ailments. However, the concept of meridians is not fully accepted in Western medicine.
