Acupuncture and acupressure work on specific points spread along the meridians. Stimulating them — with needles (acupuncture, auriculotherapy), with finger pressure (Jin Shin Jyutsu, shiatsu, acupressure) or with massage (reflexology) — is said to improve how the organs and meridians concerned function.
What therapeutic properties are claimed?
Traditional Chinese medicine holds that everything expresses Qi, the universal life energy. Discomfort is said to appear when that energy moves badly between body, mind and emotions. Acupressure treatments are meant to restore the balance — never as a replacement for the advice of your own doctor.
Where is acupuncture applied?
On its own principles, acupuncture is said to address a wide range of fields: the mind (anxiety, stress, insomnia), addictions, joint conditions, skin problems, ear, nose and throat disorders, pain management, support through pregnancy, and even the acupuncture facelift. These applications call for a qualified medical acupuncturist, working with your own doctor.
How is acupuncture said to treat pain?
Four people in five are said to suffer severe back pain at least once, which Chinese medicine attributes to tension or to a blockage of Qi along the meridians of the back (poor posture, stress, excess weight). Acupuncture is also used for dental and mouth pain, chest pain, joint pain (osteoarthritis, arthritis), tendon pain, migraines and gastrointestinal trouble, as well as in support after surgery or during childbirth, following three principles: clearing (a blocked meridian), regulating (affected organs) and expelling (stagnation).
Who is acupressure said to help?
| Who | Uses mentioned |
|---|---|
| Women | Menstrual cycle, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, emotional balance |
| Pregnant women | Relaxation, back and neck pain, nausea; certain points to avoid, to be confirmed with a medical acupuncturist |
| After birth | Muscle tension, fatigue, lactation, baby blues |
| Older people | Pain linked to osteoarthritis, chronic fatigue, concentration and memory |
| Children | Sleep problems, restlessness, dental pain, colds |
Its role in managing stress and emotional balance
Acupressure is said to act on the autonomic nervous system, easing tension and building resistance to stress while stimulating blood and lymphatic circulation. In a setting of trust, paired with talking support, it is also used to help with post-traumatic stress, anxiety or experiences of violence — always alongside appropriate medical or therapeutic care, never in place of it.
