The Art Of Applying Pressure On Acupressure Points

By Author: lexoremman
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In acupressure, the amount of pressure applied on the point depends on many factors. One, the muscles' development must be assessed. The muscles of a woman are delicate than men, hence the level of pressure applied varies on the sex of the patient. The second factor is on the specific point that will be pressed. There are points that feel tense while others are sore or ache when pressure is applied even at mild strokes. Third, is how fit the therapist is to handle acupressure massage. The qualification of the therapist' ability to apply pressure must be properly addressed. The question now is how much pressure is needed to be applied on any point considering the three factors. The process of applying pressure is an art as it requires proper coordination, evaluation of the situation and more on communication between the therapist and patient.

In addressing more developed muscles more pressure is applied. In case of extreme pain, reduce the pressure gradually until the pain is balanced between its extreme and pleasure. Acupressure is not designed to develop a pain tolerance level so it is not appropriate to make an impression ...
... that it is a game of endurance. Never press without letup a point that gives an excruciating pain. Although actually, if you firmly press the point up to around two minutes with your middle finger coupled with your index and ring fingers as support, the level of pain will decrease gradually.

You will note that there are times that when a point is held, a pain is felt in another part of the body. This situation is termed referred pain. It signifies that the two parts are connected and it is best to concentrate pressing on these points to clear the blockages.

The fingers are the basic tools used in acupressure. In order to better appreciate them, an analysis of their functions in acupressure is vital. Take the middle finger for example; it is the strongest and longest among your fingers. It is the most appropriate finger for self-acupressure. Then we look at the thumb, a strong finger also but in most instances lack sensitivity. There are also cases when your hand or fingers are weak to deliver the needed pressure. If that happens, utilize the knuckles or your fist to carry the task. Some individuals use other tools like a golf ball, pencil eraser or similar items that would perfectly duplicate the function of a finger in applying pressure.

During acupressure session, you might continue massaging or rubbing the whole area. It is not necessary. What is appropriate is just steadily hold on to the pressure point by applying direct pressure from your finger. The cardinal rule is that you apply slow but firm pressure on the area at a ninety degree angle from the skin. Do not pull the skin and concentrate on gradually directing the pressure to the center of the area of the body you are targeting. Bear in mind to release your finger gradually to allow the tissues to respond on time that will promote healing on that part of the body. How good the process is in moving your fingers slowly in and out of that point will the benefits of treatment generated is gauged.

I write for TIR Massage Stone about hot stone massage kit accessories. I also write about basalt stones and massage stones.