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Traditional Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork using thumb, finger and palm pressure on meridian points to balance energy and relieve musculoskeletal tension.

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.

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 Shiatsu Massage?

Shiatsu (literally finger pressure) is a Japanese traditional therapy that evolved in the 20th century from anma massage and Chinese acupressure principles, formalised by Tokujiro Namikoshi.

Practitioners apply rhythmic, sustained pressure with thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows, knees and feet along meridians (energy channels) and tsubo (acupoints) to balance qi and restore physical-emotional harmony.

Treatment is performed on a futon mat with the recipient fully clothed in loose, comfortable clothing. A typical session lasts 60–90 minutes and includes assessment of posture, hara (abdomen) and meridian quality.

Evidence supports shiatsu as effective adjunct for low back pain, neck pain, tension headache, anxiety, sleep disturbances and quality of life in palliative care. Mechanisms involve myofascial release, parasympathetic activation, lymphatic drainage and gate control of pain.

Symptoms

Chronic neck, shoulder and lower back pain
Tension-type headache and migraine prophylaxis
Stress, anxiety and sleep disturbances
Fatigue, fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes
Constipation, irritable bowel and functional digestive complaints
Premenstrual symptoms and mild dysmenorrhoea
Quality of life in cancer and palliative care

Risk Factors

Pregnancy: avoid during first trimester; use trained prenatal shiatsu therapist after
Severe osteoporosis (risk of vertebral or rib injury from deep pressure)
Bleeding disorders, anticoagulant therapy (gentle technique, communicate)
Recent surgery, fractures or open wounds
Skin infections, severe varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis
Active malignancy (avoid pressure on tumour sites)
Acute febrile illness and uncontrolled infection

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Shiatsu is complementary — never replace medical treatment for serious conditions
  • New, severe or persistent pain requires medical assessment to exclude red flags
  • Disclose all medical conditions, medications and pregnancy to therapist
  • Severe bruising, increased pain or neurological symptoms after session — consult physician
  • Choose certified shiatsu practitioner (Shiatsu Society UK, IRSS, NCBTMB credentials)

Treatment Methods

01
Initial assessment: history, posture, hara diagnosis, meridian palpation
02
Treatment in fully clothed, comfortable position on futon mat in quiet warm space
03
Sustained pressure (3–7 seconds) along meridians, stretches and joint mobilisation
04
Frequency: weekly to monthly sessions depending on condition; 4–8 sessions for chronic pain
05
Self-care recommendations: stretches, breathing, posture awareness, lifestyle adjustments
06
Combine with conventional treatment for chronic pain, mental health and palliative care
07
Mild post-treatment effects (fatigue, emotional release, increased urination) common — hydrate

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.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

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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.