Acupressure, acupuncture and shiatsu all have roots in traditional Chinese methods of treatment involving stimulation of pressure points along the body. The concept is based on the principle that separate lines called meridians supply energy known as “chi” to related organs. Pressure points are located where the meridians run close to the surface of the skin allowing access to the flow of “chi”.
Scientists agree that activating pressure points encourages the release of endorphins and enkephalins within the body.  

The Treatments

In acupressure, a practitioner uses thumb pressure to manipulate these points. Shiatsu also involves the use of point stimulation, usually by thumb, elbow, knee or forearm pressure, but is usually applied through clothing.
In an acupuncture treatment, fine sterile needles are inserted into the skin to clear energy blockages, promote energy flow and bring about balance. A skilled practitioner will carefully guide the needle to minimise discomfort. Disposable needles are used and are subsequently thrown away after a single use. 

Relaxing

Although some pressure points are more sensitive, most people find acupuncture, acupressure and shiatsu relaxing treatments. Depending on the condition, the benefits may be immediate. In some cases it may take several treatments before any improvement is seen. An acupuncturist may also stimulate the points with heat by burning a stick of compressed Mugwort herb called Moxa. This is called moxibustion. Cupping is another technique where small glass cups are heated then placed rim-down on a pressure point. As the glass cools, a vacuum forms to stimulate the point. Both acupressure and acupuncture may require removal of clothing.

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Preconception

Stimulating pressure points can help balance the body’s production of hormones and can be useful in cases of infertility if the problem stems from a hormonal disorder. Pressure point treatments reduce stress and boost the immune system during periods of exhaustion. They also encourage efficient digestion and promote better absorption of vital nutrients including zinc iron and folic acid.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, these treatments can be used to alleviate many common problems. As well as promoting wellbeing, they induce relaxation and are affective forms of pain control during labour. Advice for a Natural Pregnancy lists the appropriate points.

Post Natal

Acupuncture, acupressure and shiatsu are useful in treating aches and pains, breastfeeding problems, fatigue, insomnia and post natal depression.

Caution

Certain pressure points are considered contraindicative during pregnancy and may be linked to premature labour. These points are referred to throughout the site with a cautionary note.

Self Help

Try these points on yourself using thumb pressure or ask a caring partner or friend to practise on you. Always introduce pressure gradually as hard or sudden pressure will cause flinching and tighten the muscles.

(left to right) Kidney 3, Bladder 60, Bladder 67

Point Location

Kidney 1

Below the ball of the foot in the central depression.

Fatigue, anxiety

Kidney 3

On the inside of the ankle between the ankle bone and achilles tendon. Avoid using strong pressure in the first eight months of pregnancy.

Labour pain, swollen feet, fatigue, ankle pain, back pain

Bladder 60

On the outside of the ankle between the anklebone and the achilles tendon. Avoid using strong pressure in the first eight months of pregnancy.

Sciatic pain

Bladder 67

On the outside of the little toe at the base of the toenail.

Difficult labour, malposition of the foetus, itchy skin

(left to right) Bladder 23, Bladder 47, Bladder 32

Bladder 23

On the lower back at the waist between the second and third lumbar vertebrae two finger widths from the spine. Do not use strong pressure in first eight months of pregnancy.

Back pain, post partum recovery, fatigue, sexual reproductive problems, impotency, irregular vaginal discharge, urinary problems

Bladder 47

Level with Bladder 23 but four finger widths from the spine.

Back pain, post partum recovery, fatigue, sexual reproductive problems, impotency, irregular vaginal discharge, urinary problems

Bladder 32

On the lower back in the second groove of the sacrum, three finger widths on either side of the spine. Avoid during first eight months of pregnancy

Labour pain

(left to right) Liver 2, Liver 3, Gall Bladder 20

Liver 2

On the top of the foot in the webbing between the big and second toe.

Headaches

Liver 3

Located 2cm up from liver 2 towards the ankle.

Cramps, headaches, tired eyes, sweating after childbirth

Gall Bladder 20

At the base of the skull in the groove three finger widths from the spine. Apply gentle pressure during pregnancy.

Headaches

(left to right) Gall Bladder 21, Spleen 6, Stomach 36

Gall Bladder 21

On top of the shoulder in the groove, directly in line with the nipple. Apply gentle pressure during pregnancy.

Childbirth, relieves labour pain, shoulder tension, poor circulation, lactation

Pericardum 6

Middle of the inner side of the forearm, two finger widths below the wrist crease, between the tendons.

Morning sickness, insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, indigestion, postpartum discomfort

Spleen 6

Four finger widths above the interior ankle bone behind the tibia bone. Avoid during first eight months of pregnancy.

Labour pain, digestion, and fatigue

Stomach 36

Four finger widths below the kneecap, one finger width outside of the shinbone, in the groove. Point is usually tender. Avoid during first eight months of pregnancy.

Fatigue, sluggish digestion, postpartum recovery, strengthens and tones muscles

(left to right) Small Intestine 1, Stomach 16, Lung 1

Small intestine 1

On the little finger at the outer edge of the nail.

Poor milk supply

Stomach 16

Directly above the breast tissue in line with the nipples between the third and fourth ribs.

Breast pain, lactation problems, insomnia, depression, and chest congestion

Lung 1

On the chest, three finger widths below the collar bone, on the muscle.

Fatigue, breathing difficulties, congestion, coughing, and asthma

(left to right) Pericardum 1, Conception Vessel 6, Governing Vessel 26

Pericardum 1

One thumb width outside the nipple.

Breast and chest pain, insufficient milk, lymph glands, blocked ducts

Conception Vessel 6

Two finger widths below and in line with the belly button. Avoid during first eight months of pregnancy.

Postpartum, weak abdominal muscles, lower back pain, constipation, general weakness, insomnia

Governing Vessel 26

In the middle of the furrow between the lip and the nose.

Fainting, dizziness

(left to right) Triple Heater 6, Large Intestine 4 

Triple Heater 6

On the back of the forearm, four finger widths above the wrist.

Lethargy, fatigue

Large Intestine 4

Deep in the web between the thumb and forefinger. Avoid during first eight months of pregnancy.

Constipation, labour, colds and flu, breast engorgement

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