Sims Powell (waxflower9)
Acupressure has been used for thousands of years as a means of pain management. In the West, it has frequently been regarded as a complementary treatment or alternative medicine. Acupressure techniques were used in treating back pain, asthma, migraine headaches, and menstrual pain among other conditions. Currently acupressure techniques are being regarded as an alternative medicine form. This is largely because of the known effectiveness, minimal risk of side effects, and ability to stimulate positive health change.
Acupressure is a natural alternative medicine modality brought to public attention by traditional Chinese medical theory and practiced by Ayurvedic practitioners. Many enthusiasts of this practice have reported increased pain reduction, fewer headaches, less stress, and a better feeling of wellness and well being. In a new study involving elderly subjects, conducted at the University of Beijing, researchers examined the effects of acupuncture and acupressure on pain sensitivity and seriousness, with a measure of perceived pain and mental distress as the most important yardstick for measuring pain sensitivity.
The research found that people who had chronic headaches had a significant increase in both the number and percent of perceived needles as well as the duration and pressure points at which they believed these needles. The researchers came to the conclusion that this was due to an increase in the production of chemicals in the brain that trigger pain. These compounds, known as neuropeptides, act right on the neural pathways controlling pain, without harming normal functioning of the nervous system, the immune system, or the cardiovascular system.
The apparent advantage of acupuncture and acupressure lies in the fact that there is a decline in the intensity of headaches, a decrease in nausea and vomiting, a decreased need for sleep, improved concentration and memory, a reduction in symptoms of depression, and an increase in well-being, according to the study. The merit lies also in the fact that these favorable effects happen after only three to six sessions. Most people will need at least eight weekly sessions to get the benefits the researchers observed. During the first week of treatment, the person will observe an increase in pressure points and in the amount of needles going into the body. From week two ahead, the needles will decrease and the pain will decrease in frequency.
Nearly all Western patients are now reporting success with acupressure as an alternate form of treating headaches and migraine. Although, like most other Eastern therapies, traditional Chinese medicine also includes several herbal remedies. It is important to note that when dealing with headaches and migraines, especially in the Western world, it is important to be aware that, as well as the herbs used in the acupressure sessions, other medicines like Tylenol, Advil, or other over the counter (OTC) pain relievers may have to be taken. These medications can have negative interactions with herbal medicines and cause further issues. Acupressure practitioners are always cautious with individuals who have a history of depression, anxiety disorders, or chemical imbalances in the brain.
According to traditional Chinese medical theory, migraines and headaches are due to energy flow disruptions and related disruptions to the flow of qi or vital energy through the body. According to the panel, to be able to treat headaches and migraines, an individual should perform specific therapeutic procedures using acupressure points in certain areas of the body. In fact, there are at least forty-five points along either side of the mind that correspond to seven different meridians or energy channels. This provides the professional with many points to massage in order to treat various maladies. It has been noted that, if done on a consist
