Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine in which pressure is put on certain points on the body to relieve pain and help the body heal. It is believed that acupressure helps to balance the flow of energy, or qi, throughout the body, which can become blocked or imbalanced and result in pain and other health problems. In recent years, acupressure has become more popular as a natural way to treat pain that works well. Here are three pressure points to try for pain relief:

LI4 (Hegu)

LI4, also known as Hegu, is located between the thumb and index finger. This point is commonly used to relieve pain in the head, face, and neck, as well as toothaches and jaw pain. A study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that putting pressure on LI4 with acupressure makes the body make more endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers that the body makes itself. To stimulate this point, put firm pressure on it with your thumb and index finger for 30 seconds to a minute. Then let go and do the same thing with the other hand.

GB20 (Fengchi)

GB20, also known as Fengchi, is located at the base of the skull, in the hollows on either side of the neck. This point is commonly used to relieve headaches, neck pain, and shoulder tension. A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that putting pressure on GB20 with acupressure increases blood flow to the brain and decreases pain. To stimulate this point, put firm pressure on it with your fingertips for 30 to 60 seconds, then let go.

SP6 (Sanyinjiao)

SP6, also known as Sanyinjiao, is located on the inside of the leg, about four finger widths above the ankle. People often use this point to ease menstrual cramps, lower back pain, and stomach problems. A study in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that putting pressure on SP6 with acupressure can reduce pain and make people feel better all around. To stimulate this point, put firm pressure on it with your fingertips for 30 to 60 seconds, then let go.

Acupressure can be used on other parts of the body besides these specific pressure points to relieve pain and help the body heal. Even though acupressure is generally thought to be safe, it shouldn't be used as a replacement for medical care. If you have severe or long-lasting pain, you should talk to your doctor to find out what's causing it and what the best way to treat it is.

Acupressure is a natural and effective way to deal with pain, and these three pressure points can be easily stimulated at home to relieve different kinds of pain. By adding acupressure to your pain management routine, you may be able to use less medicine and feel better all around.

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