Acupressure Points You Can Use at Home for Pain Relief

Natural Pain Relief at Your Fingertips

Have you ever instinctively rubbed your temples when a headache strikes, or pressed into a sore shoulder to ease the ache? You were already practicing a form of acupressure without realizing it. This ancient healing technique, rooted in the same principles as acupuncture, uses finger pressure instead of needles to stimulate specific points on the body. The good news is that you can learn a few key points to help manage discomfort between your professional treatments.

How Acupressure Works

When you apply pressure to specific points on your body, you trigger a cascade of beneficial responses. The pressure helps release muscle tension that may have been building for hours or even days. It also improves local circulation, bringing fresh blood flow to areas that need healing. Perhaps most importantly, acupressure stimulates your body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms, including the release of endorphins. Many of our patients find that regular acupressure practice also promotes a sense of relaxation that helps break the cycle of stress and pain.

Key Points for Common Conditions

For Headaches: LI4 (Hegu) - You will find this point in the fleshy web between your thumb and index finger. Apply firm, steady pressure for one to two minutes on each hand, and you may notice the tension in your head beginning to ease. Please note that this point should be avoided during pregnancy.

For Neck and Shoulder Tension: GB21 (Jianjing) - This point sits at the highest point of your shoulder muscle, roughly midway between your neck and the tip of your shoulder. Use moderate pressure with small circular motions. Many of our patients describe this as hitting a “sweet spot” that releases tension they did not even realize they were holding.

For Lower Back Pain: BL23 (Shenshu) - Located on your lower back, about two finger-widths from the spine at waist level, this point can be tricky to reach on your own. Try using your thumbs while seated, or lean against a tennis ball placed between your back and a wall for hands-free pressure.

For Stress and Anxiety: PC6 (Neiguan) - You will find this calming point on your inner forearm, about three finger-widths below the wrist crease. This versatile point also helps with nausea, making it useful in many situations.

Techniques for Effective Practice

1. Find the point - Look for a slight tenderness or ache that feels different from surrounding tissue
2. Apply steady pressure - Use your thumb, finger, or knuckle with consistent firmness
3. Hold for one to three minutes - Breathe deeply and allow your body to relax
4. Release gradually - Ease off slowly rather than lifting suddenly

Important Considerations

Acupressure should feel like a satisfying pressure, never sharp pain. Avoid applying pressure directly over injured or infected areas. Remember that these home techniques complement your professional treatment rather than replace it. If you are pregnant or have specific health conditions, check with your practitioner about which points are appropriate for you.

Want to learn more? Our TCM practitioners can teach you additional points tailored specifically to your health concerns during your next visit.