The points treated in acupressure are usually the same areas used in acupuncture — but instead of using needles, pressure is applied through a firm massage.
Fingers (especially thumbs), hands, elbows, knees and feet are used as tools to rub, knead, drum on and vibrate against skin on certain parts of the body.
Shiatsu, the most well-known style of acupressure, is fairly vigorous, with the therapist applying firm pressure to each trigger point for three to five seconds.
Studies have shown that acupressure can help ease lower back pain, labor pain, nausea and headaches, as well as help naturally induce labor and reduce stress and anxiety during labor.
A word of warning: Since the practitioner has to press and massage very deeply to reach the acupuncture points during acupressure, it’s often times more painful than acupuncture, and it can cause discomfort or leave bruising.
About video: Hillary Talbott is a doctor of Oriental medicine practicing at Acupuncture & Herbal therapies in St. Petersburg, Florida.
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