What is acupressure ?

Instead of inserting needles, finger pressure is applied to acupuncture points to stimulate them.

Often pairs of acupuncture points are selected and pressure is applied until a pulse is felt under the fingers, and becomes equal on both sides. This technique is useful for individuals who maybe afraid of needles, and for young children. It is also something which can easily be practised at home. Acupressure can be used during childbirth to promote labour... which really gets the partner involved!

I sometimes use a sequence of acupressure points around the shoulders, neck and head before starting an acupuncture treatment. This helps relax patients who may feel anxious. Sometimes I needle a number of acupuncture points and hold a couple of acupressure points during the same treatment.