Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine very like acupuncture. The main difference between the two is that acupuncture uses needles whereas this uses pressure. Pressure can be applied using the hands, elbows, feet or other objects such as the back knobber shown here.
The pressure is applied over the same meridians or acupuncture points described in this acupuncture section.
How does it work?
It probably works in a similar way to acupuncture.
A bit like rubbing your elbow after you have bashed it – the new sensation blocks some of the discomfort. You are providing a ‘counter – irritant’ to the painful area. (This is a very simplified explanation of the pain gate theory.)
- By causing the release of endorphins
The body has its own natural pain killers called endorphins; these can be released by the body to cause a reduction in pain. For some examples of how effective this can be read this section on pain and how strange it is sometimes.
- By reducing muscle spasm
Massage also acts in a similar way.
- Release blocked energy
Traditional Chinese practitioners believe in the system of meridians or channels of energy, using touch at an acupressure point is thought to unblock trapped energy and restore balance in the body.
This is an ancient acupuncture chart showing meridians from the ming dynasty
- By increasing a general sense of relaxation and well being through touch.
This technique is similar to myofascial trigger point release which is a western concept that follows similar lines.
Does it help back pain?
Probably, in much the same way that acupuncture and massage is also helpful. The Cochrane systematic review which looked at massage (1) found that acupressure massage was slightly more effective. Also, a more recent study (2) has found that acupressure is helpful in treating chronic low back pain.
References
1.Furlan AD, B. L. I. M. I. E. 2002, "Massage for low-back pain", Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews no. 2.
2.Hsieh, L. L. C., Kuo, C. H., Lee, L. H., Yen, A. M. F., Chien, K. L., & Chen, T. H. H. 2006, "Treatment of low back pain by acupressure and physical therapy: Randomised controlled trial", British Medical Journal, vol. 332, no. 7543, pp. 696-698.
14-Sep-2009
