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Traditional Acupressure (Point Pressure)

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese technique applying manual pressure on specific meridian points to support pain relief, nausea control and relaxation.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Traditional Acupressure (Point Pressure)?

Acupressure is an ancient practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Japanese shiatsu, applying firm finger, thumb or palm pressure to specific points (acupoints) along meridians to balance qi (energy flow).

Common acupoints include P6 (Neiguan, inner wrist) for nausea and vomiting, LI4 (Hegu, between thumb and index) for headache and pain, GB20 (Fengchi, occiput) for tension headache, ST36 (Zusanli, below knee) for fatigue and digestion, LV3 (Taichong, foot) for stress.

Mechanism is partly explained by gate control theory of pain, release of endogenous opioids (endorphins, enkephalins), reduction of muscle tension and parasympathetic activation.

Acupressure can be self-administered or applied by trained practitioner. P6 acupressure (Sea-Band wristband) has consistent evidence for chemotherapy-induced and motion-sickness nausea.

Symptoms

Nausea: chemotherapy-induced, postoperative, motion sickness, pregnancy
Tension headache and migraine (adjunct to medical treatment)
Mild to moderate chronic musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, shoulder)
Stress, anxiety and fatigue
Insomnia and sleep difficulties
Menstrual cramps and premenstrual symptoms
Mild functional digestive complaints (constipation, dyspepsia)

Risk Factors

Pregnancy: avoid certain points (LI4, SP6) said to induce labour — first trimester especially
Skin lesions, varicose veins or skin infections at pressure site
Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use (gentle pressure only)
Recent surgery or fracture in the area
Severe osteoporosis (risk of vertebral or rib pressure injury)
Deep vein thrombosis or peripheral vascular disease
Active malignancy at the pressure site

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Acupressure is complementary — never replace conventional treatment for severe disease
  • Persistent or worsening pain, neurological symptoms or unexplained nausea — medical evaluation
  • Pregnant women should consult obstetrician before practising acupressure
  • Bleeding, severe bruising or symptoms after pressure require physician review
  • Find certified TCM or shiatsu practitioner for chronic conditions

Treatment Methods

01
Locate point precisely (use anatomical landmarks or charts) and apply firm but tolerable pressure
02
Pressure duration: 30 seconds to 3 minutes per point, with circular or steady deep pressure
03
Repeat 2–3 times daily as needed; for nausea P6 wristbands can be worn continuously
04
Combine with deep breathing and relaxation for stress and pain conditions
05
Self-acupressure is safe for occasional use; chronic conditions benefit from professional sessions
06
Document points used, response and any adverse effects in a symptom diary
07
Integrate with conventional therapy: medication, physiotherapy, lifestyle modification for best outcomes

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.