Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Although the exact cause of this condition is unknown, symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Unfortunately, there is no cure for fibromyalgia, but a variety of treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. One such option is Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing.

Understanding Fibromyalgia

Before we delve into the potential benefits of acupuncture for fibromyalgia, it’s essential to understand what this condition is and how it affects the body.

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic pain condition that is characterized by widespread pain, tenderness, and stiffness in muscles and joints throughout the body. The pain can be severe and debilitating, making it difficult for people with fibromyalgia to carry out daily activities.

Although it is often classified as a rheumatologic condition, fibromyalgia does not cause inflammation or damage to joints, muscles, or other tissues. Instead, it affects the way the brain processes pain signals, leading to heightened sensitivity and increased pain levels in response to stimuli that would not normally be painful.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that affects multiple systems in the body. It is characterized by chronic pain, tenderness, and stiffness in muscles and joints throughout the body, along with other symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties.

One of the defining features of fibromyalgia is the presence of tender points, which are specific areas of the body that are particularly sensitive to pressure. These tender points are located in various places on the body, including the neck, shoulders, chest, back, hips, and knees.

Fibromyalgia can be a challenging condition to diagnose, as there is no specific test or imaging study that can definitively confirm its presence. Instead, doctors rely on a combination of patient history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions and arrive at a diagnosis of fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

In addition to widespread pain and tenderness, fibromyalgia symptoms may also include:

• Fatigue: People with fibromyalgia often report feeling exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep.
• Trouble sleeping: Many people with fibromyalgia experience sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, and feeling unrefreshed upon waking in the morning.
• Stiffness in the morning: People with fibromyalgia may experience stiffness and pain upon waking in the morning, which can make it difficult to get moving.
• Headaches: Headaches, including migraines, are a common symptom of fibromyalgia.
• Irritable bowel syndrome: Many people with fibromyalgia also have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
• Anxiety and depression: Fibromyalgia can take a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of fibromyalgia are not fully understood, but experts believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors may play a role.

Some research suggests that people with fibromyalgia may have abnormalities in the way their nervous system processes pain signals, leading to an exaggerated pain response. Others speculate that the condition may be related to changes in the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in pain perception and mood regulation.

There are also several risk factors that may increase a person’s likelihood of developing fibromyalgia, including:

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
• Family history: There appears to be a genetic component to fibromyalgia, as it tends to run in families.
• Trauma or stress: Physical or emotional trauma, such as a car accident or the death of a loved one, may trigger the onset of fibromyalgia in some people.
• Other chronic pain conditions: People who have other chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or lupus, may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.

The Basics of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years as a traditional Chinese medicine technique to improve overall health and treat a variety of ailments, including chronic pain. The practice involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body, known as acupuncture points, to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Although the exact mechanism by which acupuncture works is not fully understood, it is thought to stimulate the nervous system and trigger the release of natural painkillers in the body.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a practice that involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and alleviate pain. Acupuncture points lie along meridians, or energy channels, within the body, and stimulating these points can help balance the body’s energy flow and promote healing.

Acupuncture is more than just a technique for relieving pain. It is a holistic approach to health and wellness that aims to restore balance to the body and mind. In addition to acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine also includes practices such as herbal medicine, cupping, and moxibustion.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

Although the mechanism by which acupuncture works is not fully understood, many experts believe that it stimulates the nervous system and triggers the release of natural painkillers in the body, such as endorphins and serotonin. Acupuncture may also promote blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body.

Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is the vital energy that flows through the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, when Qi is flowing freely, the body is healthy and balanced. However, when Qi is blocked or stagnant, illness and pain can occur. Acupuncture helps to unblock and balance Qi, promoting healing and wellness.

Benefits and Risks of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner using sterile needles. Benefits of acupuncture may include pain relief, reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep, and enhanced overall well-being. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with acupuncture, including bruising, bleeding, infection, and nerve damage if needles are not inserted properly.

It is important to note that acupuncture is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment. It is best used as a complementary therapy to support overall health and wellness. If you are considering acupuncture, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you.

Acupuncture and Fibromyalgia

Many people with fibromyalgia have turned to acupuncture as a complementary or alternative treatment option to manage their symptoms. Although its effectiveness for fibromyalgia is not well-established, some studies have suggested that acupuncture may provide relief for certain symptoms of this condition.

Research on Acupuncture for Fibromyalgia

A number of studies have examined the potential benefits of acupuncture for fibromyalgia. In general, research has found that acupuncture may provide pain relief and improve quality of life for people with this condition. In one review of 9 studies involving 395 patients with fibromyalgia, acupuncture was found to be more effective than sham acupuncture or no treatment for reducing pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

Another study conducted in 2013 found that acupuncture, along with exercise, was more effective than exercise alone for reducing pain and improving quality of life in people with fibromyalgia. This study involved 114 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either acupuncture and exercise or exercise alone. The group that received acupuncture and exercise reported greater reductions in pain, fatigue, and anxiety, as well as greater improvements in overall quality of life.

How Acupuncture May Help Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Although the exact mechanism by which acupuncture may help fibromyalgia symptoms is not fully understood, some studies have suggested that it may work by stimulating the nervous system and promoting the release of natural painkillers in the body. Acupuncture may also help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, which could contribute to pain relief and enhanced overall well-being.

Furthermore, acupuncture has been found to have a positive effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is often disrupted in people with fibromyalgia. The HPA axis is responsible for regulating the body’s response to stress, and disruptions in this system have been linked to fibromyalgia symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Acupuncture may help regulate the HPA axis, leading to improvements in these symptoms.

Acupuncture Points for Fibromyalgia Relief

Acupuncture points that may be beneficial for fibromyalgia relief include points on the head, neck, shoulders, back, and legs. Points that are thought to be particularly effective for fibromyalgia pain include the governing vessel and bladder meridian points, which run along the spine and lower back.

In addition to these points, acupuncturists may also target trigger points, or areas of muscle tightness and tenderness, that are commonly found in people with fibromyalgia. By releasing these trigger points, acupuncture may help reduce pain and improve range of motion in affected muscles.

Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of acupuncture for fibromyalgia, many people with this condition have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after undergoing acupuncture treatment. If you are considering acupuncture as a treatment option for fibromyalgia, be sure to consult with a licensed acupuncturist who has experience working with people with this condition.

Other Alternative Treatments for Fibromyalgia

In addition to acupuncture, there are a variety of other alternative treatments that may provide relief for fibromyalgia symptoms. These include:

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy involves kneading and manipulating muscles to reduce pain and tension in the body. Massage may help improve blood flow, reduce stress, and alleviate muscle stiffness associated with fibromyalgia.

Yoga and Tai Chi

Yoga and Tai Chi are low-impact exercises that involve gentle movements and stretching designed to improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Both practices may help reduce pain and enhance overall well-being in people with fibromyalgia.

Herbal Supplements

Some herbal supplements, such as turmeric, ginger, and valerian root, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in people with fibromyalgia. However, as with any supplement or medication, it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider before starting to take any new herbal supplement to ensure that it will not interact with any other medications you may be taking or exacerbate any underlying health conditions.

Conclusion

Overall, many people with fibromyalgia have found relief from their symptoms through a combination of conventional medical treatments and alternative therapies such as acupuncture. Although more research is needed to fully establish the effectiveness of acupuncture for fibromyalgia, it may be worth exploring this option if you are looking for additional support in managing your pain and other symptoms. Remember to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, and establish a good rapport with a licensed and trained acupuncturist if you decide this treatment option is right for you. With the right tools and support, it is possible to live a happy, healthy life with fibromyalgia.

A night out in heels. A long walk with the dog. A busy day at work. A day of museum-hopping. We have all had days where we come home and our feet are killing us.

For some people, this kind of pain is all too common, and it can limit their ability to participate in many activities that they enjoy.

There is no reason anyone should have to be limited by any type of foot pain. If you have chronic foot pain, and massages and medication are not working for you, or if the effects feel too short-lived, consider giving acupuncture a try.

What Causes Foot Pain?

There are many causes of foot pain, and often, they are different for everyone. The foot is also made up of many tiny bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles, so there is a variety of ways that it can be injured.

Here is a list of the most common causes of foot pain:

• Improper posture
• Bony deposition the heel (heel spurs)
• Exercising without warming up properly
• Being on your feet for a prolonged period of time, especially on a hard surface
• Being overweight
• Wearing high heels
• Flatfoot, which is scientifically known as pes planus
• Heel pronation, which happens when your foot naturally rolls inwards
• Heel supination, which happens when the foot naturally rolls outwards
• Tight calf muscles
• Cavus feet, which is also called a “high arch”
• Differences in length between your legs
• Pregnancy

Of course, there are many causes of foot pain, but these are the most common. Many of these can cause both chronic and irregular foot pain.

Some can be relieved through changes in posture, shoe wear, and other aspects of your day-to-day life, but for some people, that is not enough.

Even pain medication only works to an extent. That is when acupuncture can be a huge relief.

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an old technique that comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is the practice of sticking thin needles into precise spots on the body in order to ease pain and other ailments, and has been in use for over 2,500 years in China.

Today, acupuncture is also used in the west, and is one of the most popular forms of TCM found in western countries, with a rate of users still rising here.

TCM is seen as naturalistic and somewhat spiritual, especially by westerners. In many of its practices, which include massages, herbal remedies, and tai chi to name a few, the main philosophy centers around the connection of the mind, body, and soul. TCM believes that all three are closely connected.

TCM explains that acupuncture works because each specific acupoint helps the body to balance the flow of energy and life, which is called “qi”. Each acupoint has a special connection with another point on the body.

To find which points are connected, there have been diagrams created of the body that splits it in half, then in quadrants, so there are five main groups.

This not only tells the acupuncturist what points are connected, but also allows them to put the needle in exactly the right spot.

A new type of acupuncture, called “acupressure,” does not use needles. Instead, it uses either massage therapy or little jolts of electricity to touch the acupoints.

Still, it is supposed to be a similar alternative, and may be useful for people who are uncomfortable with needles.

Acupuncture is used most commonly to treat chronic pain, but has also been used to treat physical illnesses, the effects of chemotherapy, and mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

One of the best reasons to get acupuncture treatments is that unlike medication, there are no side effects.

Pills, even some over the counter medications, can have side effects that are more serious than the pain they are supposed to treat, and invasive surgeries can cause major complications.

Acupuncture will not come with any health risks, but will provide the same or better pain relief.

Will It Hurt?

This is a frequently asked question about acupuncture, and the reason many people have qualms about trying it.

The truth is, although needles are stuck into the body, acupuncture is painless most of the time. The needles used are thin enough that they would be able to fit inside a needle used to take blood, and because of this, they are relatively painless.

In the end, the majority of the reports from people who have been treated by acupuncture say that it relieved their pain, and that the needles did not hurt at all.

How Does Acupuncture Connect To Foot Pain?

There are many ways in which an acupuncturist can treat foot pain. It depends on the style of acupuncture that they practice, as well as what they believe will work best for the patient.

In many cases, especially in patients over 50, foot pain is believed to be connected to the kidney. Because of this, the acupuncturist will most likely use points related to the kidney and bladder.

Where Can I Find An Acupuncturist?

This is a very important step that should not be overlooked. Acupuncture can be performed by anyone; technically, it could even be performed at home; but it should not be.

It is potentially dangerous when performed by an amateur who does not know what the acupoints mean or who reuses needles.

Reusing needles in acupuncture is as dangerous as reusing needles used for injections. Allowing your acupuncturist to reuse a needle is the same as allowing your doctor to reuse the needle of your flu shot.

Because of this, when looking for an acupuncturist in your area, it is vital that you do your research. Make sure that they have a license to practice, that they have positive reviews, and that their workspace is sterile.

If at any point, it does not seem clean or safe, remember that you always have the option to back out.

Remember, acupuncture is completely safe and beneficial, but only when done by the right person. Most acupuncture stories of treatments that have gone horribly wrong happened when the acupuncturist was not a professional, and the needles were not new and sterilized.

What Will Happen When I Go?

First, you will meet with the acupuncturist and tell them what you hope the treatment will help you with. After that, they will probably look you over and press on your body to see if there is anything noticeable that is causing your qi to be imbalanced.

They will make sure you are in a comfortable position, then begin to place the needles in the various acupoints.

They will regularly use two fingers to feel for the flow of energy, and watch for signs of an imbalance of energy, such as redness around the needles. This will last for a varying length of time, and then the needles will be removed.

Once the needles are removed, you will be able to go about your day normally. The acupuncturist may suggest that you drink more water as a way to continue to detoxify your body.

Will It Work?

Many people may feel skeptical about acupuncture, because it is seen as alternative medicine. However, unlike some other TCM practices, there are plenty of scientific studies that have been done that show that acupuncture is a viable tool for relieving pain.

One such study was done by Xu Xuemeng et al., where 66 patients with chronic pain were randomly divided into two groups: one received acupuncture treatments, and the other received medicinal treatments.

After six months, the two groups were asked about how well the treatments worked, and the acupuncture group had a 97 percent success rate while the control group had only a 76 percent success rate.

Another study was done on patients with chronic back pain by the University Medical Center of Berlin in 2006.

The patients were split into a control group and a group treated with acupuncture, and the acupuncture group showed a major reduction in pain.

These are only two examples of how acupuncture has proven itself to be a viable option for pain relief; there are many more.

Most governments approve its safety, and many doctors refer patients to it as a treatment for their chronic pain.

Although there have been some cases in which it did not work, acupuncture has worked for most patients overall.

Chronic foot pain can slow down your life. It makes it difficult to spend time with children and pets, makes some of your favorite activities too painful, and makes it difficult to do any job that requires standing.

You should not be forced to sit on the sidelines of your own life because of your foot pain.

If you have chronic foot pain, and none of the usual solutions are working for you, acupuncture may be the relief you are looking for.

Unlike other treatments, there are no scary side effects, and it is easy, painless, and a proven pain reliever.

For the past few years, it has been a great alternative medication to use Acupuncture to treat problems related to pain.

Even the doctors have started to prescribe acupuncture treatment for patients who report chronic pain. People who are in the health care industries still believe acupuncture to be good for pain relief.

Recently there were continuous critics on the acupuncture treatment claiming that the treatment provided no relief to the patients.

Though this perspective differs from one person to another person, even doctors prescribe acupuncture treatments to the patients.

Though it is considered to be one of the natural methods to treat problems related to pain, there are lots of improvement aspects that are required to get faster and better results.

Scientific researches are made to understand the fact that acupuncture is one of the effective ancient medications available to the mankind. It is strongly believed and practiced in the west.

It may not be comfortable for everyone but definitely there are people who find it to be an excellent pain reliever.

It will also require continuous usage to feel the difference. It may not be the case that it can provide relief in just one attempt.

Alternative therapies for back pain

Back pain is considered to be one of the major problems among the people who are suffering from chronic pain conditions and it can be due to various reasons.

Back pain and neck pain can lead to many complications in an individual making the situation and life worse for people if unattended.

There are some alternative medications available that can help a person get a good relief from back pain problems.

Complementary therapies are said to be very good against back pain along with Alternative medicines. As a whole these therapies are called as CAM therapies.

Acupuncture belongs to one of these alternative therapies. Though it may not be suitable for all the individuals with back pain, there are many people who have reported this to be very useful.

The outcomes of CAM therapies are clinically visible either immediately or within a short period of time.

Some people believe in trying out new things to handle chronic conditions and problems in their body. In order to check if something is working for them or not, it is ideal to check it out.

Apart from acupuncture there are also other alternative therapies available for treating people with chronic pain syndrome.

Some symptoms may not be evaded easily with one session of acupuncture or placebo therapy, but after continuous usage it will be easy to see positive results.

Types of acupuncture treatments

The most common type of acupuncture is with the help of insertion of needles in the pressure points to alleviate pain and restore good health.

Some specific points are identified in a person’s body and metallic needles are inserted and treatment is provided. There are also other techniques available where even a needle is not required nowadays for providing acupuncture treatment.

There are two types that involve manual therapy or electric stimulation. When electric signals are used in this therapy it is called as electro acupuncture.

The way acupuncture works is described in different manner in various parts of the world based on their experiences.

In general the claim is that acupuncture is somehow related to neuroscience providing relief in the affected region by reducing the pain in the pressure points.

All the types of treatments are not aimed for just one purpose. Based on the treatment provided with acupuncture, different outcome is expected by the therapist.

It is believed that acupuncture first originated in China and was moved to various parts of the world. The types of treatments followed in various places differ from each other.

It necessarily need not be the same across the world with same outcome. In most of the places elector acupuncture is very common. In some of the treatments even needles are not used.

Instead pressure points are identified and pressure is provided in the identified spots to get a relief from the pain and other symptoms.

It is believed that with the help of electric pulse it becomes easier to treat acupuncture instead of going for traditional method of inserting needles in the spots over the body. This helps in regulating the chi flow in the body.

Real acupuncture vs fake acupuncture

It is important to understand more about acupuncture treatments. There are many options available to threat treat chronic pain. When you choose to go for acupuncture treatment, it is highly necessary that you should be capable of distinguishing between real acupuncture and fake acupuncture.

There are research works available that provides enough details about the methodical acupuncture treatments.

There are also research works that proves that it has been effective on people who had back pain and other chronic conditions.

The responsibility is on the individual to choose the right acupuncture treatment. It is easier to identify if the treatment is real or fake or just a sham acupuncture with no effect.

After seeing good results from it acupuncture was used as one of the conventional therapies to overcome pain and other problems in the body.

If you check in the city there are also some fake acupuncture clinics available that can mislead people with fake treatments.

It is the responsibility of an individual to read reviews about any therapeutic center and take treatment accordingly.

Acupuncture no longer recommended for back pain

From a different source we can see the information that Acupuncture is no longer recommended as a good treatment for problems related to back pain.

There are many practitioners still using acupuncture as a conventional therapy but in a recent research it is said that acupuncture cannot be recommended for back pain.

Though the perspective differs from one person to another person, we have to understand the fact that one treatment may not work perfectly for another person.

From the research it was said that the treatment from acupuncture was no better than just a placebo.

There were several aspects discussed by the scientists to come to a conclusion that acupuncture is not better than a placebo.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23126534

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0002934383911178

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304395901004444

Acupressure for Women: Acupressure for menstrual cramps

These days, more and more people are turning away from traditional medical treatments for their conditions and turning to more natural ways such as acupressure.

PMS and menstrual cramping are no different. While it is true that there are many great medical treatments, it’s best to do things as naturally as possible, right?

Acupressure/reflexology are alternative medical techniques based on the idea of holistic healing by using pressure applied at specific points.

This pressure can increase the flow of energy through your meridians by clearing the blockages.

This technique has been used for centuries and has been extremely effective for treating a variety of different ailments such as joint and muscle pain, indigestion, headaches, and so much more.

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a group of symptoms that are connected with a woman’s menstrual cycle and is not a life-threatening condition.

However, it can still cause a disruption in a woman’s life for a few days every month- some women have more trouble with it than others.

While there are not really any known remedies for this issue, acupressure can help to effectively treat it.

Common PMS Symptoms

This condition is actually a group of symptoms that typically appear about two weeks before a woman’s period starts- but the symptoms are different from one person to the next, therefore it can be difficult to analyze and categorize.

Following are some of the most common physical and psychological symptoms:

• Physical
  1. Abdominal cramps
  2. Muscle/joint pain
  3. Boating
  4. Headache
  5. Lower back pain
  6. Breast pain
•  Psychological
  1. Anxiety
  2. Restlessness
  3. Changes in appetite
  4. Mood swings
  5. Confusion/forgetfulness
  6. Irritability/crying
  7. Tiredness

Acupressure Points to Relieve PMS

Following are 9 points on your body that can help to relieve your symptoms of PMS. There are points on your abdomen, legs, arms, and back.

Keep in mind that some of these also relieve other symptoms- but several of them should not be used during pregnancy because they can potentially cause complications.

Acupressure Points on Abdomen

You should know that the most important points to relieve your symptoms of PMS are on your abdomen.

Stimulating these points with soft pressure using your fingers and palms can help to relieve the discomfort related to menstruation.

Sea of Energy

This is one of the primary points to treat PMS. It is located 2 finger widths below your belly button.

By stimulating this area, you can regulate your irregular periods, soothe menstrual cramps, treat constipation, and help to clear up vaginal discharge.

In addition, stimulating this area can help to relieve gas, headache, overall weakness, and digestive disorders.

Gate Origin

This one is in line with the sea of energy but is located four finger widths below your belly button.

By stimulating this point, you can relieve menstrual cramps, regulate irregular periods, treat incontinence, and treat problems with reproduction. You can also treat impotence in men by stimulating this point.

Mansion Cottage

This is a pair of points that are located in your pelvis region, at the center of the crease where your legs join your trunk.

By stimulating these points, you can relieve cramps and discomfort related to menstruation- and treat infertility.

Rushing Door

This point is located in your pelvis area, just below the Mansion Cottage. By stimulating these points, you can relieve bloating, cramps, and abdominal discomfort. These points can also help to treat dysuria and hernia.

Acupressure Points on Back

As mentioned, there are a few points for acupressure that are located on your back. By stimulating these points, you can treat lower back pain as well as cramps and discomfort related to your PMS.

Womb and Vitals

This is a pair of points located just outside your sacrum- or the bony area at the base of your spine between your hips and the base of your buttocks.

By stimulating these points, you can relieve cramps, urinary problems, lower back pain, and pelvic pain.

Additionally, these points can help to promote recovery after childbirth, relieving stiffness and hip pain.

Sacral Points

These points are located in your sacrum, at the base of your pelvis. By stimulating these points, you can relax your uterus and relieve menstrual cramps. In addition, it can help to relieve pelvically and lower back pain.

Acupressure Points on Legs

Next, there are some acupressure points on your legs. These can help improve blood flow to the lower areas of your body as well as reduce bloating by pushing out any excess fluids from your body.

Three Yin Crossing

This is located on the inner side of your leg, three finger widths above your ankle, close to your shin.

By stimulating this point, you can relieve bloating, water retention, irregular discharge, abdominal cramps, and genital pain.

In addition, it can treat vertigo, insomnia, sleep disorders, and dizziness. Keep in mind that stimulating this point is not allowed during the 8^th and 9^th months of pregnancy.

Grandfather/Grandson

Of course, using acupressure to treat PMS must include this pressure point. It is located on the arch of your foot, thumb width from the ball of your foot.

Stimulating this point can relieve abdominal cramps, bloating, digestive disorders and anxiety/stress.

Acupressure Points on Arms

Finally, we come to the essential points of acupressure: the Union Valley point.

Union Valley Point

This is located in the fleshy joint between your thumb and index finger and can help to normalize irregular/delayed periods, treat infertility, and calm uterine muscles.

In addition, this point can help to treat allergies, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, and shoulder pain. You should not use this point during pregnancy.

Of course, you don’t have to use all of these points to gain the benefits of acupressure for PMS. Simply applying pressure on just a few of them for three to five minutes can help.

Now that you know what the important points are to relieve PMS symptoms, you can offer comfort to yourself and loved ones holistically. After all, the more naturally you can treat your conditions, the better.

Watch this YouTube video by Howcast for further information about How to Relieve Menstrual Cramps & PMS.

Sources:

http://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-to-treat-pms/

http://www.howcast.com/videos/180325-how-to-relieve-menstrual-cramps-with-acupressure/

This is done by stimulating certain anatomical points called “acupuncture points” or “acupoints”, through inserting fine, sterile needles into the skin.

Acupuncture, according to a number of case studies, is effective for a number of diseases including depression, headaches, knee pain, low back pain, sprain and many others.

What this article will address is the effectiveness of acupuncture in terms of helping with sciatic nerve pain, a condition that leads to pain, tingling or numbness as a result of irritation of the nerve roots leading to the sciatic nerve.

Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated disc. Other conditions like spinal stenosis, bone spurs, arthritis and nerve root compression, also act as symptoms of sciatica.

Effectiveness of Acupuncture in relieving Sciatic Nerve Pain

As a method of dealing with back pain, Acupuncture has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is recognized as an effective means of relieving back pain, Sciatic Nerve Pain included.

However, despite this, a report by The Guardian on 24^th March 2016 gives a negative perspective, stating that Acupuncture is no longer a recommended method of treating lower back pain according to new draft guidelines released by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.

According to the new draft, there was no consistent or compelling evidence of the effectiveness of acupuncture.

The use of acupuncture was formerly recommended as a form of treatment for back pain, but the new draft no longer recommends the treatment, advising against the use of acupuncture to manage lower back pain with or without sciatica.

Anecdotes in the Guardian’s report note that the previous guidelines provided by NICE conflicted with reliable evidence and that the use of spinal manipulation and acupuncture are not supported by good science when it comes to relieving lower back pain, with 30 randomised control trials that show the use of acupuncture, demonstrating that although it can appear to be effective, it was no better than a placebo.

The above article represents one perspective of acupuncture, which can vary widely. The variety of different opinions on acupuncture is shown in another Guardian article from April 4^th, 2016, with some describing acupuncture as an effective treatment for back pain while others have described it as unpleasant and useless.

One individual named Andy Walton stated that he was initially pessimistic, but his back pain eased significantly following treatment.

However, another individual named Neil, who had spondylolisthesis, states that the treatment gave him constantly back pain with no positive effects, noting that if there was no evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture, then it should not be available on the NHS.

One particular element of Acupuncture that should be noted in terms of the negative image is that acupuncture with usual care can be quite effective for the short term, while the type of acupuncture that is described as “sham acupuncture” is worthless.

This is discussed even further by personal anecdotes by people who have experience with acupuncture.

For example, Catriona Mundle notes that she went to ten acupuncturists and two had a negative result or no effect at all. She notes that long-term treatment is needed for improvements that last a long time.

This perspective is backed up by Alice who believes that people should look at the range of acupuncture available to them, stating that osteopaths, chiropractors, physios, and doctors have only practiced after a brief course while traditional acupuncturists have long-term experience with the minimum being three years.

The Best Acupuncture for Sciatic Nerve Pain

Since the effectiveness of acupuncture is based on the experience of those performing acupuncture, the best thing to do is to do research and find the best acupuncture service for you.

The following are a set of organizations that are proven to have a vast amount of experience in the area of acupuncture. Yaoshen Cai is a service that, based on 68 reviews, has 5/5 stars and mostly positive reviews.

One user who had experienced chronic back pain for years went to this company and stated that while other acupuncturists have put 5 to 10 needles in their back, there was no effect, but with Yaoshen, it only took one try and their back pain.

Although they are not back to the way that they used to be, they no longer suffer from back pain after going to this acupuncturist.

Another user who had been suffering from problems with their lower back for ten years lost the pain instantly after their first visit to Yaoshen.

They note that after six months since their visit, their lower back is still free from pain and they will still go back if their back ever hurts again.

Another Acupuncture service that is well-revered is Acupuncture Japonia, which, according to 35 reviews, has five starts on the Yelp website.

One user who initially went to the service for sciatica along with diabetic neuropathy pains was impressed by the ability of the employees at the service to listen to people and he noted that after 3 treatments, the Sciatica was gone.

They were amazed by the efficiency of the treatments and recommends that people book an appointment with the service.

Another user who provided a positive review stated that they have been having back pain since 2011, and it was discovered that after an x-ray that they had scoliosis.

Their pain continued and worsened which resulted in it being painful to go over bumps when driving and wanting to go to sleep when they got home due to the pain.

They tried a chiropractor at first, but after a $2000 contract, the results were none and a friend recommended Acupuncture Japonica and after three visits they do not even think about pain anymore, nor do they go home exhausted from chronic lower back or hip pain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Acupuncture can be effective for Sciatica. However, this is highly dependent on the service that is available.

As shown by anecdotal reports from the Guardian and Yelp, the quality of the service available determines the effectiveness of the acupuncture.

A regular well-trained service will provide excellent results while others are unlikely to present any results.

In addition to alleviating pain, manipulation of these pressure points may also provide other significant benefits to the health. Pressure points can be found in the head, neck, back, arms, legs and elsewhere on the body.

Here we will focus on pressure points in the legs and the many benefits enjoyed when you learn the proper manipulation techniques or visit a licensed massage therapist.

Find your Leg Pressure Points

The upper half of our body receives a more adequate supply of blood flow to and from the heart than the lower half. It is for this reason that many people experience pain and inflammation in their legs and feet.

Learning the pressure points in the legs, as well as manipulation techniques, may improve the circulation of blood flow through the legs, reducing pain, inflammation, swelling and other conditions affecting both men and women.

With an improved circulation of blood through the legs, the body is able to repair itself quicker, recovering damaged cells and improving growth.

It is important that damaged cells are able to recover quickly since they are responsible for transmission of oxygen and vital nutrients. These cells also help remove waste and carbon dioxide from the body.

Benefits of Leg Pressure Points Manipulation

When you promote blood circulation throughout the legs, you can ensure that you are benefiting yourself greatly.

The use of manipulation on those pressure points in the legs is the easiest, safest and fastest way to increase the blood circulation in the legs. With improved circulation from the legs to your heart, other benefits are also enjoyed. Those benefits include:

• Prevention of varicose veins
• Reduce pain in the feet
• Prevention of restless leg syndrome
• Better healing time when injured or wounded, whether that is a cut on the leg or a sprained ankle
• Better regulation of the body temperature
• Help prevent Type 2 Diabetes
• Promote muscle and bone growth in your lower body and extremities

Get to know Acupressure

Manipulation of the leg pressure points is called acupressure. To perform acupressure correctly you must apply continuous, deep pressure to the pressure points in the legs.

There are several of these pressure points found in the legs. Pressure points are areas of the leg that help supply fresh blood and oxygens to the body.

Leg Pressure Points

The following pressure points are found in the legs. It is a good idea to get to know some of these pressure points, or them all, and begin using acupressure as soon as possible.

Age is irrelevant for the use of these pressure point techniques but older adults find it especially beneficial. Let’s take a look at those pressure points in the legs.

SP-12

Spleen 12 is one pressure point found in the legs. When applying acupressure for relief of pain and promotion of blood circulation it is best to start manipulation at this pressure point.

SP-12 pressure points are found on both sides of the legs. To find this point, look where the cease joints your thighs and your trunk.

BL-40

Bladder 40 is another pressure point in the legs. BL-40 manipulation promotes healthy blood flow through the popliteal artery. This pressure point is found on the back of the knee, in the right crease of the knee joint.

There’s lots of flesh here. The BL-40 pressure point is found in both legs. To find this pressure point, begin with pressure applied to the calf muscle using your middle finger. Run your finger down to the popliteal fossa.

ST-36

Stomach-36, or ST-36, is a pressure point that can be found underneath the kneecap. To find the pressure point, count down four finger widths, keeping one finger width outside of the tibia, or the shin bone.

If you place your fingers on this pressure point you will notice that your ankle joint will move up and down. This one is a bit difficult for some to find initially, but once you find it the first time it will be easy from that point forward.

SP-6

To promote blood flow through the posterior tibia artery, find pressure point SP-6, or Spleen -6. This pressure point is found above the inside ankle bone in the lower calf muscle. This pressure point can be found three finger widths down from the shin bone.

Liver – 3

Another important pressure point in the leg is Liver -3, or LR-3. This pressure point helps promote healthy blood from and fresh oxygen and nutrients to the anterior and posterior tibial arteries.

This pressure point is located between the big toe and the second toe. To find this pressure point, place your finger on the ankle and raise it until you run into bones.

Acupressure on these pressure points provides individuals with an array of benefits that begin to work almost immediately. Acupressure is safe, effective and definitely worth learning, or at least finding a specialist to provide the technique to your legs.

There are many acupressure specialists out there who can perform acupressure on the legs. You’ll definitely feel like a new and improved you with the use of acupressure in the legs and throughout the body.

Final Thoughts

It is very much worthwhile to learn the various pressure points found in the legs or to find someone who can perform the task for you.

You’ll quickly alleviate pain that can otherwise interfere with your quality of life and your enjoyment of various activities.

Almost anyone can use acupressure and pressure points to help alleviate aches and pains and to promote healthy blood flow through their legs.

Acupressure is far safer than using medications or risky surgery, with ongoing benefits enjoyed the more that you participate.

Learn more about the pressure points in the body, particularly in the legs, and you’ll enjoy the many benefits listed here and many others.

Resources:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/177119-pressure-points-in-the-legs/

http://drbenkim.com/acupressure-blood-circulation-legs-feet.html

There are specific points on the body which can be addressed should such pain arise. Such points are not always in the back, however.

In fact, much back pain can actually be caused by core abdominal muscles like the psoas. These are muscles which operate from the frontal portion of the spine, assisting with balance and leg movement.

Still, other muscles in the back and the rest of the body can become bound up and produce back pain.

Starting with the Hand

Believe it or not, the hand is the place on the body to start with when it comes to back pain. Have you ever had a hand massage? It feels wonderful.

Every part of your body relaxes and the temptation for a never-ending process overwhelms.

One of the primary acupressure points for any pain is just between the index finger and the thumb.

Where the thumb joins the palm and just ¾” up, there is a pressure point which can be gently massaged to produce relaxation.

It is believed the relaxation comes from a release of endorphins, which are calming and pain-relieving chemicals in the body.

You need fast relief, so start here to get a better feeling. Be sure to switch hands. This practice can be immensely relieving.

Moving on to Other Points

The foci here will most likely be put into application by someone with knowledge and practice in the art of acupressure.

One could discover the ability to apply the pressure points themselves, but it would be best to consult a professional from the start.

Following guidelines are for useful information, but everybody is different. However, consider these points as a way to progress to relieving the back pain you are feeling.

Feet

Start with a gentle foot massage. Work out the kinks in your feet. Sensations of relaxation and delight should follow.

Beginning sensations of relaxation will help you feel better from the start. There is a point directly where your big toe and next toes meet at the major foot bones, the tarsal bones.

When using acupressure, it is best to use either your thumb or a strong finger to apply focused pressure.

Press to the point and rotate five or six times clockwise and do the same count and pressure counterclockwise. Breathe evenly as you do this.

Forearm to Elbow

Believe it or not, the elbow and forearm also acupressure points back pain can be relieved by applying reciprocal pressure too.

Feel the joint of the elbow and come to the top with your hand extended. Reveal the upper portion of the forearm and feel the bone there.

All along this bone, in an arc, you can use the alternating clockwise in counterclockwise motion you used previously.

The side of the back which demonstrates more pain will correlate to the side of the arm you will be applying pressure to.

This is one you will have to feel your way through, but simply stay aware of how this affects your back pain. Naturally, do the same for the other arm to keep it all in balance.

The Lower Back

Finally, we get to the point where the pain is. At least a bit below it is a good place to start. Here are four points in total, two at either side of the spine.

You know the dimples on your back where the back meets the buttocks? Those are the first two points.

Applying gentle pressure to these points and using a rotating motion both clockwise and counterclockwise should start to help the muscles in the lower back to relax.

Next, moving laterally with the thumbs about an inch and a half away from the original points, apply gently and use similar motions there.

Back of the Knees

Directly at the back of your knees, you will find a pressure point which will help relieve back pain.

Knees handle much body pressure in a day and tensions can build up in the whole joints. This compromises your back in so many ways.

Find the points directly on the opposite sides of your legs from the kneecaps. Apply deep pressure with reciprocating circular motions as you did for other pressure points.

In addition to relaxing the hamstrings, this practice helps to keep knees nimble and better able to handle the weight of the body.

The Dan Tien

This is an interesting point which can be used as among acupressure points back pain can be relieved by.

Approximately two inches below the navel and about two inches inside is a nerve plexus which relates to the muscles involved in core strength. This area can be very sensitive.

Before applying any pressure to this area, also known as the Dan Tien in Chinese Traditional Medicine, it is best to relax, focusing on this point.

Breathe with the sensation. Allow yourself to feel it. Tensions may unravel quickly and even suppressed emotions may arise. This is your center of gravity and center of being.

When you have gained a clear feeling of this area, you may begin to apply light pressure and determine how this helps your low back pain.

Be gentle and avoid pressing in too firmly, as this could affect other organs and muscle tissue. As you gain practice, this point will become an ally to help relieve back pain.

As you can tell, there are practical ways to relieve body pain without having to go to a doctor.

Naturally, if pain persists or worsens, perhaps seeing a qualified physician is the best idea. When you are clearly injured, avoid just pressing on random points you know little about.

There are acupressure therapists available to help you relieve pain on a lasting basis.

Most of all, it is important to learn how to move correctly on a daily basis, so you can secure a good understanding of how your body mechanics work.

Avoid back pain and live life to the fullest.

Resources:

http://acupressurepointsfor.com/5-easy-acupressure-points-for-back-pain-and-lower-backaches.html

How To Use Acupressure Points For Lower Back Pain

For those suffering from neck pain, it may be a challenge to find an over-the-counter medication that helps. Even prescribed medications from a doctor can not put a dent in the pain or can be a case where a tolerance is developed. Pain sufferers may find temporary relief or partial relief but nothing long-term and a full resolution of the pain.

If there are other options that have been tried and not found effective, it is time to pursue other means of pain relief. This is where the concept of acupressure comes in, and this has a great potential to help these individuals find a longer-lasting relief.

Prior to jumping into the world of acupressure, however, it is a very logical approach to prepare yourself to receive acupressure, even if you will be doing it yourself. It is important to have an open mind when attempting a treatment method such as acupressure. This involves an open mind and a belief in some of the situations like energy movement throughout the body and its impact on pain.

Acupressure is an accepted form of healing from ancient times, traceable back to the people of ancient Asia, that focuses on stimulating key points on the body to help relieve pain and discomfort. Practitioners believed that pain and discomfort are precursors to illness and disease. The use of acupressure to handle these issues stops the growth and development of the disease.

The main points that become important in acupressure are acupoints, which are located along meridians in the body. These meridians are lines that connect all parts of the body via that line. Those lines carry energy and therefore are key to refocusing that energy or removing believed blockages that cause the pain and discomfort. There are many similar practices in different cultures, where pressure on the hands and feet are used to combat pain or illness like the process of acupressure and focus on specific points on these accepted lines in order to relieve pain in specific areas of the body or specific ailments.

Reflexology is similar to acupressure. Meanwhile, acupuncture uses the same principles and meridians, although this practice utilizes needles instead of simply applying pressure.

Prepare for Acupressure

1- Educate Yourself – Since acupressure has been used for years in China and Asia, there are already a lot of books and articles on the methods used and what to expect when choosing this approach to pain relief. Read up on the history of acupressure, and be prepared for what is to come.

2- Have Reasonable Expectations – This type of healing can not help with incurable diseases or cancer. With that in mind, it can be beneficial for those who have chronic pain that is related to these illnesses. As long as you do not expect miracles, this treatment can still be highly beneficial.

3- Make a Plan for Payment – For those who hope to treat themselves for chronic pain, the payment issues related to acupressure are unimportant. However, for those who hope to visit more experienced personnel for the application of acupressure, it may be pertinent to contact your insurance and find out if acupressure is an accepted form of treatment they handle payments for. This is not necessarily the case with all insurance companies.

4- Find a Qualified Practitioner – This is another element of research. Check with people you know who utilize acupressure. They typically have found someone that is trustworthy to administer the treatment. If no one you know has found a reliable practitioner, then it is time to turn to the Internet. Search out acupressure facilities in your area and look into customer testimonials as well as the business rating for such a facility. Visit the place before committing to having a treatment done there. Ask questions. Determine if you feel comfortable with these workers, as they will be administering an important treatment that requires you to be relaxed as it is administered.

Basic Acupressure Tips

Acupressure is the belief that certain lines on the body carry the individual’s life energy and pressure is applied to these lines in order to clear blockages and thereby relieve either chronic pain, like neck pain or back pain or migraines, or significant event pain, like childbirth. Studies are being done on the efficiency of this concept. Most studies have seen a significant level of success when it comes to applying acupressure in certain studies versus those who did not have acupressure applied.

There are 365 points for use in acupressure. These points are located along 12 meridians. They are also divided into subcategories, like

• source points ( balance energy)
• alarm points (assessing condition of meridian)
• Yu points (boosts immune system)
• master extraordinary points (nervous system and internal organ boosts)
• Gates of Chi points (energy balancing points)

Novices may not have a grasp of how acupressure works and what the best ways are to work this into a daily lifestyle. For them, here are some basic things to remember for general acupressure success.

Tips for Success in Acupressure

Apply Pressure Gradually

For those suffering from intense pain, it is best to use light pressure and apply it for a few minutes. Lighten pressure and hold for a minute before letting go completely. Also, it is important to recognize that if even light pressure is too much, using light touch may still be beneficial. Meanwhile, for those with a high pain tolerance, applying intense pressure can be beneficial. Following the acupressure, it is recommended to stay in place and practice deep breathing for 5 to 10 minutes to allow your body to become relaxed and (hopefully) pain-free.

For those with little or no experience, keep the pressure application to three minutes or less.

Longer periods of acupressure should be left to more experienced individuals. For now, pay attention to indications and stop if it has a negative effect. For example, tingling means circulation may be increasing to the area. However, if dizziness occurs, it may be best to withdraw pressure or focus on the CV 17 point, which is located at the center of your chest.

Avoid pressing on cuts or wounds and do not use pressure against your throat

These will all be counter-productive efforts. Acupressure will not help if bleeding occurs due to pressure near wounds that need to heal, and pressure on your throat is generally not helpful.

When Possible, Use Reinforced Fingers

This means use more than one finger when applying pressure. For example, when using your index finger, use your middle finger on the same hand for support.

Remember this is for Your Benefit

Even when pressure is helping, muscles instinctively tense for protective purposes. Remember the pressure that is being put on these areas is intended to help you feel better. Focus on the positives, because your mindset is a big part of making acupressure successful.

Be Prepared for Different Sensations

Some people report a feeling like an electric current if two points on an acupressure meridian are pressed at the same time. This is not necessarily painful or unbearable, just a strange feeling you may not be expecting. If you are open to new feelings that are a step along the process to feel better, these feelings will come and go and you will find progress. Acupressure recipients have also experienced tingling in their hands or hot or cold sensations throughout the body. Any of these can be considered normal, as they are simply a translation of the energy moving throughout the body.

Using the points listed below, as well as researching further (see references below), can mean you find relief from neck pain through acupressure in the near future.

Effective Points Along the Spine that Help with a Stiff Neck

GB 20 – The GB 20 is located below the base of the skull, between the vertical neck muscles and at the two hollows on either side of the neck. This location requires you to put gradual pressure on both sides with fingers or knuckles. Holding the pressure, push your head backward slowly with your eyes closed. Then hold the pressure for two to three minutes.

This location is known as the Window of Heaven and helps with headaches in addition to neck and shoulder pain.

GB 21 – The GB 21 is located on the top of the shoulders. The measure is two finger widths from the base of the neck. For this point, which is actually where the most stress on the trapezius muscles is centered, it is best to use the opposite hand. Curve fingers to put the strength of your arm behind the pressure you use on this point.

This point is also known as the Shoulder Well. It is recommended that pregnant women only press lightly on this spot. Fatigue and irritability can also find relief due to pressure on this spot.

B 10 – This spot is located one thumb width down from the skull and one thumb width out from the spine. Firm and extended pressure on this point is helpful because it helps with hormonal balance. It also is beneficial for the thyroid gland.

This location is also known as The Gates of Consciousness and can help with issues like dizziness, eyestrain and irritability.

Using pressure on these points several times throughout the day is recommended to help deal with this chronic pain and give relief.

There are numerous other points as well that can be beneficial to those with neck pain.

The Heavenly Pillar, for example, is located midway between skull and shoulders on the neck. It can be found on the ropy muscles just out from the spine. Pressure here can help with a stiff neck, eyestrain, a sore throat and insomnia issues.

Meanwhile, a large hollow at the base of the skull and located in the center of the back of the head is called the Wind Mansion. This spot is useful for headaches, vertigo, mental issues and pain in the eyes, ears, nose and throat as well as neck pain.

It is recommended to apply pressure to these points on more than one occasion. Sometimes, it takes several tries before the effectiveness becomes apparent. Also, this method of pain relief will not be successful for everyone. Still, it is not advised to try it once and write it off, just in case your situation requires more attempts.

Important Don’ts for Practicing Acupressure

1. Avoid doing acupressure after you have just engaged in a strenuous workout routine. This is not a time when your body is ready to be relaxed and release tensions and stress levels.
2. For those recovering from a disease that has drained you physically, avoid diving into the use of acupressure.
3. Make sure to eat properly while undergoing acupressure. For those who recently ate a large meal, wait for half an hour to an hour after eating. For those who have not eaten, that is not the best time to attempt acupressure either.
4. Avoid the use of acupressure if you are epileptic or suffer from high blood pressure. This is particularly true when it comes to using acupressure on the sufferer’s head.
5. Open wounds, serious burns or recently formed scars should not be treated with acupressure.
6. Artificial joints are not to be treated using acupressure.
7. Do not use alcoholic beverages or choose to have sex in the six hour time frame around a scheduled session of acupressure.
8. Make sure to take particular note if an acupressure session was very effective or showed no apparent change. This is important to determine whether this treatment is worth repeating in the future.

Studies on the Effectiveness of Acupressure

Some studies have been done on how effective certain disciplines of acupressure can be. In 2011, for example, a study at the University of Colorado – Boulder showed that the discipline of Jin Shin and particularly its use on 26 points on the body could be helpful to those who suffered minor brain trauma. The acupressure treatment improved cognitive functions and helped individuals, like returning war veterans, score better on tests designed to measure that cognitive function.

Meanwhile, studies have shown that acupressure will most likely help with several levels of traumatic pain and chronic pains like lower back pain and headaches. These situations show the participants in the study have had success when using acupressure for pain, especially when compared to a control group that is not being given any type of medication or acupressure treatment to deal with these pains they have struggled with in the long term.

One big trend is the use of acupressure for treatment of motion sickness. There is a point on the inner side of the wrist that, when pressed lightly and for extended periods of time, helps with motion sickness. That is why there are actually bands in existence to provide the right level of pressure on this spot on both wrists to help those going on long trips or even those with morning sickness during pregnancy, as this also relates to morning sickness.

Despite the tendency of modern medicine to abandon any type of ancient medicine that can’t be explained to a satisfactory level with modern techniques or tests, practices like acupressure and herbal remedies are still kept alive by those willing to try things a bit out of the norm in order to find relief from pain or illness. These practices have stayed alive because they give success.

Therefore, acupressure may not be a first choice for those who tend to visit their physician at the first sign of pain or illness. However, for those who have tried all the accepted medical routes and still face pain without resolution, acupressure is a viable option. It also has been found to have success for specific situations, for diseases or disorders where the doctor cannot explain the cause and therefore has no solution for the problem. For those who have issues like this, i.e. migraines or another disorder with no concrete cause that a doctor can pinpoint, any treatment method that allows pain relief is a welcome opportunity.

Even doctors that are more open-minded to the things they cannot explain recognize the fact that the body is a giant puzzle that we have not come close to unlocking the majority of the pieces for and the explanations for how it all works. We are still learning and building on the knowledge we have. Practices like acupressure can work with no discernible reason. Therefore, it is wise to attempt a practice like this and learn the tenets that make it successful without expecting it to fit into the small box that is acceptable to modern medical practices and teams. Some medical situations can be enjoyed for their success without demanding an explanation to make it easier to comprehend.

Further reading:

Acupressure Points for Relieving Neck Tension: http://www.herbalshop.com/Acupressure/Acupressure_44.html

Acupressure Points for Headaches, Stiff Neck & Pain Relief

 http://www.acupressure.com/blog/?p=529

Top 6 Acupressure Points for Treating Neck and Shoulder Pain:

http://www.modernreflexology.com/acupressure-points-to-treat-shoulder-and-neck-pains/

It is surpassed only by osteoarthritis. Due to its similarities to arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, it is quite often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.

The characteristics of fibromyalgia include widespread muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and several other symptoms.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia can lead to depression/anxiety and ultimately social isolation- it’s no fun to be out with friends and be in pain too!

The word “fibromyalgia” is derived from the Latin word for fibrous tissue, which is fibro, along with the Greek words for muscle (myo) and pain (algia).

What are Pressure Points/Tender Points?

Fibromyalgia Pressure Points are particular points on the body of an individual with fibromyalgia (18 points at 9 locations) that are extremely sensitive to the touch upon being examined by a doctor.

These pressure points are located at the following nine points of bilateral muscles:

1. Front neck area- at the beginning of the aperture between the diagonal processes of C5 to C7
2. Front chest area- at the second cartilaginous joints between the sternal end of the ribs and the end of the costal cartilages.
3. Back of the neck- at the muscle insertions in the suboccipital area.
4. Back shoulder area-at the middle of the upper border.
5. Shoulder blade area- just above the central border of the scapular spine.
6. Elbow area- two centimeters proximal to the lateral epicondyle.
7. Rear end- the upper outer quadrant of the behind.
8. Rear hip- at the end of the greater trochanteric prominence.
9. Knee area- at the central fat pad nearest to the joint line.

These pressure points are also referred to as trigger points or tender points. However, the AAFP says that “fibromyalgia trigger points” is not a correct term, since referred pain actually distinguishes trigger points from tender points.

They cause points of pain or localized tender areas around the joints, but don’t involve the joints themselves. When pressed, even gently, with a finger, these pressure points/tender points hurt.

Typically, they’re not areas of deep pain, but are superficial areas that seem to be just under the surface of the skin.

Are Pressure Points/Tender Points Large?

Actually, they’re not. The size of the most tender point is typically very small- around the size of a penny. These areas tend to be a lot more sensitive than other areas that are nearby.

In fact, pressing on one of these pressure points/tender points with a finger (or other object) will inflict pain on the individual that will make them pull back or flinch.

As you can see from the above list, these tender points are scattered out over the body- in 9 specific locations.

What Causes These Pressure Points/Tender Points?

This is actually another of the unknowns when it comes to fibromyalgia. Though it would make sense to assume that these areas are inflamed, due to the pain- researchers have been unable to point out particular inflammation signs when examining these tissue areas in individuals with fibromyalgia.

However, it has been noted that these pressure points/tender points are definitely not random.

They occur in specific, predictable places on the body. So, individuals with fibromyalgia will all experience basically the same or at least similar symptoms with their pressure points/tender points.

Diagnosis from Pressure Points/Tender Points?

Your doctor can do testing on these painful pressure points/tender points during a routine physical examination.

However, even when these tender points are present, you’re still going to need to be able to describe the specific pain you’re feeling in those particular areas.

You’re also going to need to be able to describe the other fibromyalgia symptoms that you’re experiencing to your physician.

These symptoms include: fatigue, problems with falling or staying asleep, irritable bowel syndrome, deep pain in your muscles, depression, and others.

When your physician is testing your pressure points/tender points, he/she will also be checking a few “control” points- or points that are not tender- on your body to ensure that you’re not having the same flinch or pull back response on those spots.

In order to get a fibromyalgia diagnosis, the symptoms must be present for three full months.

Can Medications Control or Ease the Pain of Pressure Points/Tender Points?

Managing the pain of the pressure points/tender points actually incorporates a multifaceted program employing both traditional and alternative therapies.

While it’s not exactly clear why, the pain and fatigue related to fibromyalgia actually respond quite well to low doses of antidepressants.

However, treatment for these pressure points/tender points and the other symptoms of fibromyalgia actually involves a combination of daily management of stress, hydrotherapy with both heat and ice, medications, and plenty of rest.

Additionally, other remedies for fibromyalgia symptoms could be incorporated as necessary.

Are There DIY Treatments Available to Manage Pressure Point/Tender Point Pain?

Yes, there are some alternative, do-it-yourself treatments that are very important in managing your fibromyalgia symptoms and the pain that comes with the pressure points/tender points.

For example, therapeutic massage can actually help to manipulate the soft tissues and muscles to help ease the muscle tension, stress, pain, and muscle spasms.

In other words, no pain fibers. The pain results when the muscles that surround the skull, eyes, ears, and sinuses, and the meninges covering the spinal cord, brain veins, nerves, and arteries become irritated or inflamed and. The pain can range from a very dull ache to an intense ache and can be short term, constant, throbbing, or sharp.

Classifications of Headaches

The International Headache Society released a classification system for headaches in 2005. There are many people suffering from headaches and treating them can be quite difficult.

It was hoped that this system of classification could assist physicians in making a specific diagnosis as to the type of headache was being experienced, which would allow for better and much more effective treatments. There are three major headache categories, based on where the pain originates:

1. Primary
2. Secondary
3. Facial Pain, Cranial Neuralgias, and other types of headaches.

Facts about Headaches

The head is actually one of the most common pain sites in the body. As stated above, there are three categories that headaches can be classified into. The most common types of primary headaches are: cluster, migraine, and tension. The most common type of primary headache is tension and are typically treated with OTC pain medications.

Secondary headaches are actually a symptom of an underlying illness or injury. If you ever experience a new onset headache, change in behavior, weakness, changes in sensation, vomiting, fever, or a stiff neck, you should immediately contact your physician for evaluation.

Treatments for Headaches

Of course, treatment for a headache depends on the type of headache you’re experiencing and what is causing the headache. Common OTC and DIY treatments for headaches include:

OTC medication such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, and acetaminophen is typically one of the first courses of treatment. However, if you prefer to avoid using medications, you should try the following: warm compress, resting quietly in a cool, dark room, and stress management techniques. You can also use pressure points to control and relieve your headaches.

Pressure Points to Relieve Headaches

The World Health Organization says that around 47 percent of adults worldwide suffer from at least one headache in a year. Tension headaches are the most common. Since one of the triggers of tension headaches is muscle tension in the neck or head, applying pressure to certain points around the neck or head could actually help to relive the symptoms of a tension headache.

Some of the pressure points for preventing/relieving tension headaches are: base of the skull, upper trapezius muscle, sternocleidomastoid muscle, and the temporalis muscle. Following are some instructions on how to use these pressure points to your advantage.

Base of the Skull

Take your fingers and touch where the bottom of your skull meets your neck. There, you should find some little indentations. There are many different muscles located there that- when they get tight- can contribute to tension headaches.

Place your thumbs on these indentations and take a deep breath in. Then, as you begin to exhale, press your thumbs into the indentations and lean your head slightly back. This particular pressure point serves to relive many headaches felt in both the back and the front of the head.

Upper Trapezius Muscle

The trapezius muscle is that really large muscle located at the top of your back. This muscle attaches to your upper neck and skull, going down to the middle top of your back and across to your shoulders.

Reach one arm across to the opposite shoulder. Use your fingertips to feel midway between your shoulder and neck and press down. If your upper trapezius muscle is tight, you’re going to feel pain up your neck and around your ear. This pressure point will help to relieve that pain.

Sternocleidomastoid Muscle

The sternocleidomastoid muscle, also known as SCM, attaches from the back of the ear to your breast and collar bone. In order to locate the point that is causing the headache, you should place your right hand on the right side of your neck and turn your head to the left.

The muscle that sticks out is the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Squeeze it very gently as you turn your head back to face the front. Then, take a deep breath in. as you exhale, very slowly and gently give this muscle a squeeze. If your sternocleidomastoid muscle is tight, you’re most likely to feel pain over your eyes and possibly your jaw. Massaging this muscle in this way will help to relieve the pain.

Temporalis Muscle

The temporalis muscle is the muscle that runs from the side of the skull to the jaw. Every time you chew or speak, you’re using the temporalis muscle. If this muscle is tight, you’re going to feel pain over your temples, around your eyes, and even in your jaw.

In order to stretch this muscle out, you’re going to place your fingers on your skull just above your ears and behind your temples. Breathe in deeply. Then, as you exhale, very slowly open your mouth, pushing your fingers up toward the top of your skull.

Warnings

Be aware that if you’re having frequent or constant headaches, that could be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. If you begin to experience confusion, extreme sleepiness, weakness, double vision, red eyes, or a fever you should seek medical attention. Also, if your headache gets worse over time or if you have a sudden, severe headache that develops over a few seconds or minutes.