Acupressure more effective than physical therapy
Date: Monday September 28, 2009Posted in: Alternative Medicine
We all know Acupressure has been around for some 5,000 years now and those of us involved in Holistic and wellness remain convinced that the procedures encompassed within this sphere are more efficacious than physical therapy. Every living being has a life force, or energy, called qi or chi (pronounced “chee”). When this energy, which runs along meridians, is in balance and flowing freely, the body is in a state of health. Acupoints tap into the the major energy pathways of the body
When this energy is blocked or deficient, illness can result. These energy disruptions are often the result of stress or injury. It is believed that acupressure causes the brain to release endorphins. Endorphins play an important role in immune function, pain relief, stress reduction, and slowing the aging process.
Lower back pain has long been the bain of the modern world not only in lost man hours but also because of the numerous side effects, complications and nuances of lower back pain complaints. Further studies now confirm the benefits of acupressure over physical therapy. Albeit that the studies failed to take into account functional status and disability as recommended by
most low back pain researchers the results are still very meaningful and relevant. In February 2006 a randomized controlled trial took place at The National Taiwan University in Taipei.
129 patients with chronic low back pain received acupressure or physical therapy for 1 month. Primary endpoints were self-administered Chinese versions of standard outcome measures for low back pain (Roland and Morris disability questionnaire) at baseline, after treatment, and at 6-month follow-up. After treatment, the mean total Roland and Morris disability questionnaire score was significantly lower in the acupressure group than in the physical therapy group regardless of the difference in absolute score or mean change from baseline.
Compared with physical therapy, acupressure was associated with an 89% reduction in significant disability and that improvement was maintained at 6-month follow-up. Study limitations include a confounding psychological effect of therapy; loss of 15.5% of patients to follow-up at 6 months and effectiveness of any manipulation therapy dependent on the therapist’s technique and experience.
Participants were aged 18 to 81 years. Exclusion criteria were pregnancy and contraindication to acupressure. 64 patients were randomized to acupressure and 65 to physical therapy. Conclusive or inconclusive the results still point towards the undeniable and positive aspects of acupressure and holistic healing.
On a more lighter note Acupressure has also been cited as a new aid for sleepy students. 39 student volunteers found that those who were taught to self-administer acupressure to stimulation points on their legs, feet, hands and heads were less likely to drowse during class. The acupressure consisted of light tapping of fingers or using thumbs or forefingers to lightly massage the stimulation points. It was conceded that more study is needed in relation to acupressure and the effect on human alertness.
Looking further into the positives might this self administered acupressure also be a consideration for children with ADHD contra Ritalin!
Acupressure Fast Facts - Get Pain Relief at Home
Date: Wednesday September 23, 2009Posted in: Alternative Medicine
Acupressure was originated in China thousands of years ago, and evidence has been found that acupressure was practiced in the stone age!
Acupressure has been used to reduce post-operative nausea and vomiting in children.
Acupressure also reduces nausea in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Acupressure can be done anywhere without special equipment.
You can treat yourself safely with acupressure, as long as you follow the guidelines of a professional acupressure practitioner.
Correctly performed, acupressure increases circulation, reduces tension and pain and enables the body to relax.
Acupressure strengthens the immune system and promotes wellness.
Acupressure should be applied slowly and gently. Applying it too quickly or vigorously can do some damage, especially in the abdominal area.
Special care and caution is needed in the case of a pregnant woman or in treating a person with burns, infections and recent injuries.
Acupressure is more effective than physical therapy for the majority of patients with low back pain.
Ear acupressure can be used to reduce stress and anxiety.
Acupressure is used to reduce fear and anxiety in trauma victims and in pre-operative care.
Acupressure can be used to treat all these conditions:
Tension Headaches
Migraine Headaches
Jaw Pain, Toothache, Earache
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Wrist, Hand, Arm pain
Backache, Hip, Knee, Ankle and Foot pain
Colds, Flu, Sore throat, Sinus Infection, Loss of Voice
Allergies
Anxiety Attacks and Nervousness
Depression
Insomnia
Fainting
Hiccoughs
Improve Memory and Concentration
Angina, Heart Palpitations and High Blood Pressure
Constipation, Diarrhea, Heartburn and Stomachache
PMS and Painful Periods, Hot Flashes, Pregnancy Discomfort, Morning Sickness
Bed-wetting, Incontinence, Urinary retention
Nose bleeding, Itching, Asthma, Decreased Libido, Hangover
Here are a couple acupressure tips you can try:
For headaches and muscle or joint pain, press the fleshy part of your hand between your thumb and index finger. Hold for this for one minute, then repeat on the other hand.
For low-back pain, lie on your back, with your feet elevated on a sofa or chair. Place two tennis balls under your lower back on either side of your spine. (I got cheap tennis balls in the dog toy department.) Stay in this position for one minute or sooner if it becomes uncomfortable.
For knee pain, put a tennis ball on a pillow, then place your leg over it so the ball is pushing into the crease behind your knee. Find the sensitive spot just below your kneecap and slightly to the outside of the shinbone. Press into it gently with your fingertips for about one minute.
You can learn to do acupressure at home to supplement professional treatment. This is especially useful when you are stricken with illness or pain and you can’t get to the doctor soon. For more information see my website http://natural-pain-relief-solutions.com.
