Acupressure
Acupressure involves the application of pressure through the use of elbows, hands and various other devises at traditional acupuncture points. This traditional Chinese medical practice is more of a holistic approach then a symptomatic one that is commonly used in the West.
The acupoints stimulated may or may not be in the area of the body where the complaint manifests. The theory behind the treatment is that applying pressure to such places helps to balance the body’s energy or chi. Working with the 14 primary meridians practitioners attempt to strengthen the flow of chi to areas where it is deficient or to remove blockages along the channels.
One of the reasons that acupressure is preferred by some over acupuncture is the lack of needles involved. The use of needles, however small, in acupuncture entails some risk of blood borne infection for the practitioner and raises fears in those who are needle phobic. Acupressure avoids the whole issue.
Some studies have shown that stimulating the P6 acupressure point does indeed reduce nausea in post operative patients. Additional research is being conducted.
Practitioners of acupressure often incorporate their treatments in a larger practice of traditional Chinese methods. Cupping, various types of massage, herbal remedies and so forth are frequently available as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
The NCCAOM – National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine – evaluates and certifies individuals who have trained in various traditional Chinese. Other organizations provide the same services. Each state has specific rules concerning the practice of Oriental medicine, so check to see where you stand legally wherever you are thinking about practicing.