Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Acupressure Treatment Offers Natural Healing And Pain Relief

By Paulette Short


Acupressure treatment is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice which is similar to acupuncture, only instead of needles it uses manual pressure. It is based on the belief that the body possesses several individual channels known as "meridians" which energy or "Qi" flows through. Each of these pathways is associated with a specific organ which can be affected by stimulating points along these meridians.

There have been numerous studies conducted which provide evidence that this method is effective as a pain relief and healing approach. Since it has been noted to impact both the body and mind, it is classified as a holistic modality. It eases muscle tension and improves circulation and also has a relaxing and energizing effect.

Meridians extend from the head down to the heels and are understood to connect the outside of the body to its inner workings. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are more than 800 distinct energy points along these pathways. Although not officially accepted by Western medicine, it has been proven that these points are often found at major autonomic nervous crossways.

An acupressurist's tools of the trade include their hands, feet, elbows, and special devices that have been designed for this purpose such as the acuball, energy roller, and foot roller. A typical session is an hour in length, after which the patient may be advised to drink warm water to flush out any toxins which may have surfaced. Several sessions are usually needed for the best results.

The goal of this therapy is to restore the body's balance of yin and yang energy (positive and negative) forces. Even though there is an ever-growing body of evidence which supports the efficacy of it as a curative and analgesic technique, Western medicine continues for the most part to attribute these findings to the release of endorphins and such rather than accrediting it to the practice of acupressure therapy.

This method has also gained recognition as preventative measure that can help correct imbalances and pain before they progress further. Its principles are simple and it can be learned by anyone and applied to oneself to help treat problems such as neck pain, eyestrain, back and muscle aches, sinus problems, headaches, and arthritis. It can also help ease stress which can positively affect the immune system.

Pressure applied to the wrist has been proven through several studies to treat and prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and motion sickness, there are special wristbands on the market that patients can wear to continually apply pressure in order to achieve this effect. Additional research supports claims that this method helps various types of pain, headaches, and arthritis as it stimulates endorphin production and has an anti-inflammatory effect. It also seems to improve mood and energy levels which helps patients suffering from depression and anxiety.

Overall there is no risk associated with acupressure treatment, although it may not be suitable for those who have been diagnosed with cancer, a spinal injury, varicose veins, or rheumatoid arthritis, these patients should first check with their doctor. It can also cause contractions in some pregnant women, who are better off waiting until after they deliver. Patients must make sure that only a certified and licensed practitioner performs this procedure.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment