What is Acupressure?
Acupressure comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine and involves applying targeted pressure with hands, elbows, or devices to acupoints on the body. This is done along the bodys meridians channels where energy or Qi flows.
Stimulating these acupoints helps release muscle tension, improve circulation, activate natural pain relief, and restore the flow of vital energy throughout the body and mind.
While acupressure shares theories with acupuncture, no needles are used. Instead, firm pressure is applied by hand or via devices to stimulate the acupoints.
Some of the potential benefits of acupressure include:
- Chronic pain relief
- Reduced headaches and migraines
- Lower back pain relief
- Less nausea, vomiting and motion sickness
- Improved sleep
- Decreased stress, anxiety and depression
- Increased energy and wellbeing
How to Find an Acupressure Practitioner Near You
If youre interested in trying acupressure, finding a qualified local practitioner is recommended. Here are tips for locating skilled acupressure professionals in your area:
Search online directories
Check online acupuncturist/TCM directories such as AcuFinder.com and ChineseMedicineDirectory.com. Search for licensed acupuncturists or acupressure therapists near your location.
Look on clinic websites
Many acupuncture and TCM clinics offer acupressure. Browse their websites for practitioners' profiles and qualifications.
Ask for personal referrals
Talk to friends, family, coworkers or other healthcare providers for recommendations of skilled acupressure therapists they trust.
Search therapy listing sites
Websites like ZocDoc.com and HealthProfs.com allow you to search for registered acupressure practitioners in your city or zip code.
Contact local Traditional Chinese Medicine schools
Nearby TCM or oriental medicine schools may offer student clinics where supervised students provide quality discounted acupressure services.
Look for professional organization directories
Member directories on sites like AAAOM.org (American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) can help you find practitioners.
Check your insurance provider
Many insurance plans now cover acupressure and acupuncture. Ask your insurer for a list of TCM providers in their network near you.
Credentials to Look for in an Acupressurist
Once youve found some potential acupressure practitioners in your area, look for these credentials to ensure they are qualified:
Licensing
Make sure the acupressurist is properly licensed in your state. Most states require acupuncturists to be licensed, indicating comprehensive training.
Education & Training
Opt for an acupressure therapist with ample education in Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as 2-4 years of masters level acupuncture and acupressure training.
Certifications
Relevant professional certifications can demonstrate expertise. Examples include certification from the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine).
Professional Memberships
Membership in respected professional associations like the AAAOM shows a commitment to the field.
Specialization
Look for acupressurists with advanced training or specialization in your specific health needs, such as pain management, womens health, headaches, etc.
Avoid any practitioner making unrealistic medical claims or not properly trained in proper techniques.
Questions to Ask a Potential Acupressure Therapist
When evaluating acupressure practitioners, come prepared with questions such as:
- How long have you been practicing acupressure and how did you get into it?
- Where did you complete your acupressure training?
- What certifications or licenses do you hold?
- Do you specialize in treating certain conditions with acupressure?
- What can I expect during a typical acupressure session?
- Do you incorporate other modalities like massage, cupping, or aromatherapy?
You can also ask about their experience treating clients with needs similar to yours, techniques they use, and any conditions they have extra expertise in.
What to Expect During Acupressure Treatment
Knowing what to expect during a typical acupressure session can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Intake Process
Youll likely need to complete an intake form with your health history so the practitioner can tailor the treatment. They will discuss your goals, symptoms, and any sensitivities.Assessment
The acupressurist will assess areas of tension, discomfort, or blockage to determine optimal acupoints to work on. This may involve feeling pulses, examining your tongue, and palpating meridians.Treatment
Youll lie down on a treatment table or sit in a reclining chair. As the practitioner applies rhythmic finger, hand, elbow, or tool pressure to acupoints, you just relax and breathe deeply. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes.Follow-Up
Your therapist will provide aftercare advice on self-care, hydration, rest, and any precautions. They may also recommend additional treatments and complementary self-acupressure tips.Acupressure Techniques and Variations to Ask About
There are numerous acupressure techniques and modalities to inquire about to see if they may benefit your needs, such as:
- Shiatsu Japanese massage-based acupressure
- Tuina Chinese manual therapy combining acupressure and massage
- Jin Shin Jyutsu Uses light touch on safety energy locks along the meridians
- Reflexology Foot and hand points correspond to organs and body areas
- Trigger point therapy Deactivates knots in tight muscle fibers
- Acupressure mats Spiky mats provide constant pressure to acupoints
- Auriculotherapy Stimulates points on the ear
- Tapping Rhythmic gentle strikes on meridian endpoints
The right techniques for you will depend on your health objectives, problem areas, comfort level, and practitioners specialty.
How Much Does Acupressure Therapy Cost?
Costs for acupressure treatment can vary quite a bit. However, you can typically expect to pay:
- $50 - $150 per acupressure session at a private therapists office
- $30 - $75 at community acupuncture/TCM clinics
- $25 - $50 student rates at acupuncture teaching clinics
Some factors affecting acupressure costs include:
- Geographic location and cost of living
- Seniority and experience level of the practitioner
- Whether you purchase single or package session deals
- What types of techniques are provided
Confirm pricing options when booking a consultation. Many acupuncturists accept major insurance plans, which may cover acupressure treatment.
How Often Should You Get Acupressure Treatment?
For best results, most people benefit from multiple acupressure sessions over a period of weeks or months. Chronic issues may require maintenance appointments every few weeks. Typical treatment frequency may include:- 4-6 weekly sessions for an acute issue
- 8-12 sessions for a chronic health problem
- 1 session per month for maintenance and relaxation
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
When performed correctly by a licensed professional, acupressure is very safe for most people. Mild side effects can sometimes include:- Light bruising at site of applied pressure
- Temporary tingling or soreness where points are stimulated
- Increased urination as body flushes out toxins
- Infection at acupoints (very rare)
Get Started with Acupressure in Your Area
Acupressure provided by a qualified practitioner can offer drug-free relief for many conditions while bringing your body and mind back into balance. Finding an experienced therapist near you is key for getting the most from this therapeutic traditional practice.FAQs
What are the benefits of acupressure?
Potential benefits include pain relief, reduced stress and anxiety, improved sleep, headache/migraine relief, decreased nausea, and increased overall wellbeing.
How do I find a qualified acupressurist near me?
Search online directories, therapy listing sites, local TCM clinic websites, ask for personal referrals, contact acupuncture schools, check professional organizations, and verify proper licensing.
What qualifications should an acupressure practitioner have?
Look for proper licensing, 2-4 years of TCM training, relevant certifications, membership in professional associations, and specialization in your health needs.
What happens during an acupressure session?
You'll complete an intake form, undergo an assessment, relax while the therapist applies pressure to acupoints, and receive aftercare instructions - typically over 30-60 minutes.
How much does acupressure therapy cost?
Costs range from $25 for student clinics to $150 per session in private practice based on location, experience of the practitioner, and number of sessions purchased.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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