My Fitness Edge

Acupressure uses pressure applied to various pressure points on the body to improve health and energy and heal disease. The ancient Chinese beleived energy or “Chi” flowed through channels in the body and this energy supported good health. The Chinese thought the body’s health was sustained by the energy they called Chi which surged throughout the body. They observed that tension seems to build up in certain parts of the body. This tension the Chinese thought blocked the flow of Chi and caused pain and dysfunction in the body. The basic premise of acupressure is to relieve the pressure in these points on the body eases pain and improves health.

Acupuncture, a cousin to acupressure uses fine needles inserted into pressure points to increase the flow of energy through the body. Over time they discovered other parts of the body could sometimes be helped by stimulating various pressure points.In more modern time electro-acupressure has developed in which the use of electrical current is such as is used in a TENS unit is applied to the needles to invigorate the pressure points. Acupressure tools to help in applying pressure are also often used.

As a healing system acupressure has been used to assist in childbirth and labor pain for thousands of years. Used as a means to help labor, specially trained acupuncturists work with the docotr during labour to assit the process.

To induce or strengthen labour using acupressure the LI4 point is often used. LI4 is located between the index finger and thumb and is easiest found by bringing thumb and index finger together. The muscle on the hand will bulge slightly near where the thumb joins the hand and right above the web between finger and thumb. A lagging labour is only one of many conditions this pressure point is used to treat. Pressure is applied in a firm circular motion. Do not stimulate this point unless your doctor says you are ready to deliver.

Multiple points exist on the sacrum or tail bone area of the lower back right above the crease of the buttocks which can relieve labour pain. The womans partner can apply pressure to this area to assist in pain relief. Finger tips, knuckles, a tennis ball or an acupressure tool can be used. A circular motion with as much pressure as the mother feels is helpful is used. Back pain unrelated to labour can be also helped by applying firm pressure to these points.

B67 is a pressure point located is located on the outside of the small toe right beside the toe nail. You can stimulate this point with gentle pressure or rubbing. This acu-point is used to stimulate fetal movement and help correct breech presentations. Four fingers width above the ankle in the inner side of each leg is another acu-point used to strengthen labour.

These acu-points can be used throughout the day of labour off and on to assist with pain and strengthen labor. With all acupressure or any other alternative treatment used in pregnancy it is important to talk with your doctor or midwife before using these techniques.