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The Limitations of Acupressure
Although treatments are administered in a slow, steady manner, they can
involve very forceful pressure, and thus may not be a prudent choice for a
person with brittle bones (osteoporosis) or a history of spinal or other
orthopedic injury or easy bruising. They should also be avoided if you have a
bleeding disorder, take anticoagulant drugs, or are undergoing long-term steroid
therapy, which can make the tissues fragile.
Acupressure is traditionally recommended to ease discomforts of pregnancy and
childbirth. However, as with any treatment during pregnancy, it's best to
consult a doctor first, and to avoid any pressure near the abdominal area.
Acupressure in the legs and feet could prove damaging if you have circulation
problems resulting from diabetes or varicose veins. It could also aggravate
carpal tunnel syndrome, which is, at the outset, a result of pressure on a
nerve. Caution should also be used near fragile or irritated skin, sores, and
wounds.
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What Side Effects May Occur?
After an acupressure session, some people report feeling light-headed or
slightly groggy for a while. Lasting soreness is also a possibility. Usually
attributed to "released energy" or "released toxins," it is more often the
result of trauma to soft tissue or tendons that may already be inflamed.
Limitations of Acupressure Patients with life‑threatening diseases and
serious medical problems should always consult their doctor before using
acupressure or other alternative therapies. It is important for the novice to
use caution in any medical emergency situation, such as a stroke or heart
attack, or for any serious medical condition, such as arteriosclerosis or an
illness caused by bacteria. Nor is acupressure an appropriate sole treatment for
cancer, contagious skin diseases, or sexually transmitted diseases or other
serious illness. In conjunction with proper medical attention, however, gentle
acupressure (safely away from the diseased area and the internal organs) can
help soothe and relieve a patient's distress and pain.
Caution: If you have a serious illness or chronic or life-threatening
illness such as heart disease, cancer, or high blood pressure, you should not
use the following techniques described in these exercises: brisk rubbing, deep
pressure, kneading, or other recommenÂÂdations that may be over stimulating.
Never press any area in an abrupt, forceful, or jarring way. Use the abdominal
points cautiously, especially if you are ill. Avoid the abdominal area entirely
if you have a life‑threatening disease, especially intestinal cancer,
tuberculosis, serious cardiac conditions, and leukemia. Avoid the abdominal area
during pregnancy as well. Special care should be taken during pregnancy.
Lymph areas, such as the groin, the area of the throat just below the ears, and
the outer breast near the armpits, are very sensitive. These areas should be
touched only lightly and not pressed. Do not work directly on a serious burn, an
ulcerous condition, or an infection: for these conditions, medical care alone is
indicated. Do not work directly on a recently formed scar. During the first
month after an injury or operation, do not apply pressure directly on the
affected site. However, gentle continuous holding a few inches away from the
periphery of the injury will stimulate the area and help it heal.
For a review of other types of massage click here
These tools may assist in the performance of self
administered acupressure.
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