Acupressure for Back Pain Relief

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, illness and pain are seen as the result of interrupted flow of qi (energy). As with acupuncture, the aim of acupressure is to restore and balance the flow of qi through the body. Acupressure/acupuncture points are places where the flow of qi can be influenced to regulate body functions in addition to relieving pain.

To perform acupressure, use direct pressure to the appropriate point with your finger or thumb. Press the point lightly and progress to more pressure slowly until you feel a dull ache around or spreading out from the point. (Of course, if you’re working with a delicate area, such as the face, use light pressure.) Press and hold the point until you feel relief, or up to a minute.

Acupressure For Back Pain Relief

1. In the lower back, between the 2nd and 3rd lumbar vertebrae (at waist level), two and four finger widths away from the spine on either side, are B23 and B47. Pressing these points can help to relieve lower back pain and sciatica. They can be tender, so a light touch is indicated to begin with.

   To work with these points, from a seated position put your hands at your waist with fingers wrapped around your sides and your thumbs on the paraspinal muscles, four fingers out from the spine on either side. The pressure should be directed so that it's angling in toward the spine. Hold as much pressure as you can without causing discomfort, for approximately one minute. Then switch to B23, approximately two fingers away from the spine and follow the same procedure.

   An alternative way to work these points is to lie on your back with knees up. Place your fists, palm down, under your back on either side of the spine at waist level, so that the knuckles press into your paraspinal muscles. If it feels good, you can sway your knees gently from side to side to increase the depth of pressure to these points.

2. Another place you can use acupressure for back pain relief is in the center of the back of the crease in your knees. This point, B54, is good for relieving back pain and stiffness, as well as sciatica and knee pain.

   To work with this point, place your fingertips in the center of your knee creases, applying pressure for about one minute. You can do this either seated, or lying on the floor on your back with your knees bent toward your chest.

   You can add some side to side rocking, as well, if it feels good. This position helps to relieve stress on the lower back, so it gives you some added relief.

These points are taken from Acupressure's Potent Points, by Michael Reed Gach. It's an excellent resource book with very clear directions about how to locate the points.

Beyond Acupressure for Back Pain Relief
Of course, the best way to relieve back pain is to prevent it. Try to get plenty of good exercise, maintain an optimal posture, breathe correctly, keep your abdominal muscles strong, and manage stress.


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