Wrist pain is often due to repetitive stress imposed on the wrist by computer related activity such as typing. Sometimes wrist pain is due to carpal tunnel syndrome. In this condition the inflamed tissue compresses the nerve inside the wrist (medial nerve). The nerve, in turn, releases chemical substances that inflame the tissue further. When treating this condition your goal is to stop the inflammation/compression cycle.

According to the theory of Acupressure, actively massaging certain points on and around the wrist can be as effective way to treat wrist pain.  (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?). 

How do you know whether you have the right spot?  The pressure points “announce themselves with a feeling of tenderness, tingling, soreness, or minor discomfort,” explains Michael Castleman in Nature Cures.

Step 1: P6

Location: On the interior side of the arm, in the hollow between the bones of the forearm, three finger-widths above the wrist crease.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in the direction of the palm. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 3 min or more, if comfortable

Step 2: P7

Location: In the wrist, in the hollow between the bones of the forearm.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in a downward direction. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 3 min, if comfortable

Step 3: TW5

Location: On the back of the arm, in the depression between the two bones, three finger-widths above the wrist crease.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in upward direction. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 2 min, if comfortable

Step 4: TW4

Location: On the back of the arm, in the center of the wrist crease.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in an upward direction. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 2 min, if comfortable

Step 5: Li5

Location: In the wrist crease, near the thumb tendon. Move the thumb to feel the tendon movement.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in upward direction. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 2 min, if comfortable

Step 6: Si5

Location: In the wrist crease, in the hollow on the side of the wrist.

Suggestion: Apply firm deep strokes of pressure in an upward direction. The initial painful sensation should soon begin to subside; if not, discontinue pressure.

Duration: 2 min, if comfortable

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing pain or other symptoms, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

Source: AcupressureOnline.Org

According to the theory of Acupressure, gently massaging a few of the points we have already discussed in previous posts can help alleviate the symptoms of "After the Holiday Parties" Syndrome, sometimes referred to as "too much of a good thing," or a hangover, which can be the result of too much food, drink, socializing, hanging with family, etc. (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?).

An effective way to work with these points is to sit comfortably or lie down, close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply, and gently press or massage each point with your thumb or fingertips on both sides of the body for 1 minute each (a total of 8 minutes).  Follow the order of points listed below, left and right side for each point.

The four points and their locations and post dates are:

1. Acupressure Point LI 4, source point on the Large Intestine Meridian (May 23, 2006 post):

Location: In the webbing between the thumb and index finger.  The bones of the thumb and index finger form a v-shape at the base of this webbing.  The most effective way to apply pressure to LI 4 is to slide your thumb along the webbing until you reach the junction of the thumb and index finger bones. 

Caution: Pregnant women should not hold or apply pressure to LI 4 until they have gone into labor.

2. Facial Beauty Point (St 3) (October 31, 2006 post):

Location: Below the cheekbone, directly down from the pupil (center) of the eye.

3. Three Mile Point (St 36) (October 17, 2006 post):

Caution: If the points or surrounding areas are sensitive or painful, press or massage very gently at first, and gradually increase the pressure only up to a threshold of mild discomfort at most, not severe pain.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing pain or other symptoms, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

According to the theory of Acupressure, the Middle Palace Point (Lu 1) can be helpful in opening or expanding the breathing, and may be helpful in relieving coughs and upper back/shoulder tension.  Lu 1 is also associated with support for grief, depression or feelings of emptiness (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?). 

Location: On the top of the chest, under the shoulder, locate the depression under the end of the clavicle, next to the muscle. Lu 1 is one thumb width under this point, slightly to the side.

Press into the point gradually and gently with the middle fingertip.  Once you have reached a depth that may feel slightly uncomfortable, hold the fingertip at that depth for 1 minute as you breathe slowly and deeply. 

Another approach is to feel the point on both the left and right sides (same location) to determine if one side is more sensitive or painful than the other.  If so, apply gradual pressure for one minute on the less sensitive or painful point, then continue with pressure for one minute on the more sensitive or painful point.

You can also apply a massaging motion for an additional minute by gently moving three fingertips in a small circular motion on and around the point.

Breathing slowly and gradually deeper as you are able during the entire touching of Lu 1 is recommended for maximum benefit.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing pain or other symptoms, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

Source: Eclectic Energies

Acording to the theory of Acupressure, there are several points that can help curb the appetite (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?).  Here are two:

Appetite Governing (GV 26)

Location: in the hollow between the upper lip and the nose.

Place the thumb inside and up under the lip and the index finger outside on the point.  Massage the point by moving the thumb in a slight downward motion while moving the index finger in a slight upward motion; then reverse, moving the thumb upward and the index finger downward.  Continue this massaging motion for approximately 1 minute while breathing slowly in and out.

Stomach Alarm (CV 12)

Location:midway between the belly button and the bottom of the breastbone, in an area often referred to as the pit of the stomach.

It is probably best to work with this point on an empty stomach to avoid severe discomfort or nausea.

Press in very gradually and gently with the fingertips on and around the point, angling upwards in the direction of the diaphragm.  Once you have reached a depth that may feel slightly uncomfortable, hold the fingertips at that depth for 1 minute as you breathe slowly and deeply.  Depending on how deep you press, you may begin to feel a knot or lump.  If you do, hold at this depth for 1 minute and breathe.

If you feel comfortable, you can massage the area for an additional minute by gently moving the fingertips in a small circular motion on and around the point.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing pain or other symptoms, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

Source: Michael Reed Gach

According to the theory of Acupressure, the Facial Beauty Point (St 3) can help alleviate the symptoms of sinus congestion, sinusitis, headache, jaw and facial tension, and eye strain.  It is also considered a helpful point for toning and lifting the facial muscles(see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?).

Location: Below the cheekbone, directly down from the pupil (center) of the eye.

An effective way to work with the Facial Beauty Point (St 3) is to place the middle fingertips of each hand directly on the points on each side of the face and press in an upward direction underneath the cheekbones for approximately 1 minute, starting with a gentle pressure and gradually increasing the pressure.  You may also do one side at a time if you prefer.

Another suggestion is to place the index, middle and ring fingertips on the point and surrounding area and gently massage, pressing in an upward direction underneath the cheekbone for approximately 1 minute.  Again, you may do both sides at the same time or one side at a time.

Caution: If the point or surrounding area is sensitive or painful, press or massage very gently at first, and gradually increase the pressure only up to a threshold of mild discomfort at most, not severe pain.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing pain or other symptoms, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

According to the theory of Acupressure, the Bubbling Spring Point (K 1) can support recovery from fatigue and lethargy; it is considered a very important point on the kidney energy meridian for grounding, connecting with the earth, and rooting the energy downward. (see May 9, 2006 post:What is Acupressure?)

Location: Below the ball of the foot in the central depression.

An effective way to work with the Bubbling Spring Point (K 1) is to place the thumb on the point and alternately press and release in a pumping motion for 30 seconds - 1 minute.  Repeat this press and release pumping motion on the other foot.

A convenient way to work with this point is to sit on a firm but comfortable chair, or on the edge of your bed.  Lift one foot and rest the ankle above the knee of the other leg so that you can see the bottom of your foot.  Use the tip or pad of your thumb, whichever feels more comfortable, to press and release in a pumping motion (but not so that it causes excessive pain).  If your thumb gets tired or sore, pause and rest for a moment, then continue.  After 30 seconds - 1 minute, reverse the process by lifting the other foot and resting the ankle above the knee of the opposite leg.

According to the theory of Acupressure, the Three Mile Point (St 36) can help strengthen the immune system and reduce fatigue. (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?)

According to the theory of Acupressure, the Sea of Tranquility point can help reduce the effects of stress and restore a sense of calm. (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?)

Location: On the center of the breastbone, three thumb widths up from the base of the bone.

Benefits: This point can help relieve nervousness, anxiety, chest tension and other emotional imbalances.

An effective way to work with the Sea of Tranquility is to lightly place the middle fingertip directly on the point while allowing your index and ring fingertips to rest gently just above and below the point next to the middle finger.

Try the gentle placement of your fingertips on the area of the Sea of Tranquility along with a few slow gentle breaths in and out, and see if this brings you into a calmer state.  If it does, you can use this technique to help you get to sleep at night, to reduce stress while at work, and at any time when you need a gentle reminder to restore calm.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing the pain or other symptom, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

The liver plays a major role in the body’s metabolism and is involved in glycogen storage, plasma protein synthesis, and drug detoxification.  It also produces bile, which is important in digestion, and performs and regulates a wide variety of high-volume biochemical re-actions.

Acupressure Point Lv 3 is referred to as the source point on the Liver Meridian, a channel of energy associated with the liver.  According to the theory of Acupressure, this important source point helps to keep the body’s energy running smoothly. (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?)

Application of finger pressure on Lv 3 is thought to be helpful in releasing toxins from the body and has also been beneficial for some in helping to relieve headaches, allergies and foot cramps.

Acupressure Point Lv 3 is located on the top of the foot between the big toe and second toe where the bones of the big and second toes form a v-shape.  The most effective way to apply pressure to Lv 3 is to slide your finger along this v-shape on the top of the foot between the big and second toes until you reach the junction of the big and second toe bones. 

Begin by moving your index or middle finger (you can also use both your index and middle fingers together) in a small circular rubbing motion over Lv 3 for a few seconds.  Then you can apply gentle to moderate finger pressure depending on how sensitive the area feels.  If there is any pain, it should be a “good hurt,” not severe or uncomfortable.  You can hold the point as long as you are comfortable, up to several minutes.

One of the keys to maintaining wellness is regular bowel movements.  Diet, stress and other factors can often interfere with the body’s natural elimination. 

Acupressure Point LI 4 is referred to as the source point on the Large Intestine Meridian, a channel of energy associated with the large intestine.  According to the theory of Acupressure, this important source point helps re-establish the energy balance of the meridian. (see May 9, 2006 post: What is Acupressure?)

Application of thumb pressure on LI 4 has been shown to help alleviate constipation and has also been beneficial for some in helping to relieve headaches.

AcupressurePoint LI 4 is located in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.  The bones of the thumb and index finger form a v-shape at the base of this webbing.  The most effective way to apply pressure to LI 4 is to slide your thumb along the webbing until you reach the junction of the thumb and index finger bones. 

Begin by moving your thumb in a small circular rubbing motion over LI 4 for a few seconds.  Then you can apply gentle to moderate thumb pressure depending on how sensitive the area feels.  If there is any pain, it should be a “good hurt,” not severe or uncomfortable.  You can hold the point as long as you are comfortable, up to several minutes.

Caution: Pregnant women should not hold or apply pressure to LI 4 until they have gone into labor.

Caution: This acupressure information is not a substitution for qualified medical advice.  If you don't know what is causing the pain or other symptom, consult a medical doctor before you start treating yourself.

Acupressure therapists receive training at schools such as the Acupressure Institute in Berkeley, California, or at certified massage schools.  Since acupressure involves massage, it is important to find someone you feel comfortable with.  A word-of-mouth recommendation from a friend or co-worker may be the best place to start.  A phone conversation with the therapist before your first visit may help you determine if you are comfortable to proceed with your appointment.

During a treatment, which can last anywhere from 15 minutes to nearly an hour depending on the severity of the problem, an acupressure therapist may have you sit or lie on a massage table.  Some acupressure therapists will work through clothing; others will ask you to undress (you will be covered with a towel).

The therapist will then locate and work on the specific points that relate to your condition.  Pressing a point behind your knee, for example, can help address low back pain.  Or pressing a point on the top of the foot may help ease the pain of migraine.  Typically, the therapist will press each point for about three to ten seconds (longer in some cases).  The points may be pressed and released repeatedly.  If the problem doesn't respond after about 20 to 30 minutes of treatment, acupressure may not be effective for you on that particular day, or for that particular ailment.  After a treatment, you will probably feel looser and more relaxed.  You may experience a slight achiness, but you shouldn't be in pain.  Within three to eight visits, you should know whether the treatment is working for your ailment.  Stress management usually requires a series of about six regular (weekly or monthly) treatments.

There are many different types of acupressure, and each practitioner may draw from a variety of methods.  One of the most popular is shiatsu, a Japanese technique based on ancient Chinese principles, which involves applying strong pressure with thumbs and hands to rub and press acupressure points.  In the Chinese acupressure variation known as Tui Na, practitioners use their hands for massage-like kneading motions.  Reflexology is a type of acupressure that involves pressure points on the feet and sometimes the hands.

Even if you prefer to do acupressure on yourself, you may wish to see an acupressure practitioner for a visit or two first to help you learn where the particular acupressure points are on your body.

Acupressure Therapy is a type of bodywork that involves pressing specific points on the body with the fingers, knuckles, and palms to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote general good health.  Developed in China more than 5,000 years ago, perhaps out of the natural human instinct to hold or rub a place on the body that hurts, acupressure is part of the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine that also includes acupuncture.