The following guest post was contributed by Christine Howell who frequently writes about Online Healthcare Degrees and college related topics for Online College Guru, an online college directory and comparison website:

      Acupressure is an ancient traditional Chinese medical treatment which focuses on applying pressure to specific points in the body, known as acupressure points, in order to promote the healing and curative powers of the body. These points are typically very sensitive to bioelectrical impulses and disturbances, and react to stimulation by triggering the release of endorphins into the body. This can help block pain and promote relaxation of muscles and mind, as well as providing a number of other health benefits for patients. Pain relief Most people are already aware of the pain relieving effects of acupuncture. In 2007, a Duke University Medical Center study showed that using acupuncture before and after surgery reduced the need for other painkillers significantly. While its effects are not as dramatic, acupressure has similar effects for patients suffering from chronic pain.

     Acupressure can directly affect the root causes of some aches and pains by relaxing muscles, reducing the tension and tightness that can lead to back and neck pain. Stress reduction Acupressure can reduce stress in adults and children. Stress can be a contributing factor in mood disorders, high blood pressure, and circulatory problems in adults; acupressure can not only help relax patients and allow them to realize significant reduction in their overall level of stress, it can also improve circulation and blood flow, improving circulatory health and offering a measure of protection against some of the side effects of diabetes. In children, acupressure can help prevent anxiety, nightmares, and other emotional upsets. Children who are trained in the use of self-acupressure can use its techniques to calm themselves when they become frightened or upset; because acupressure requires no special equipment, it can be practiced anywhere with ease.

      Acupressure treatments have been shown to decrease the symptoms of A.D.D. and A.D.H.D. in many children. Addiction treatment Acupressure has been used to ease the stress and discomfort of smoking cessation and drug and alcohol withdrawal. By incorporating acupressure therapy into their treatment plan, patients can experience significant stress relief and increase their chances of success. Acupressure treatments can also improve mood, helping to stave off the depression so common during addiction recovery. Weight control For patients struggling with eating disorders and weight control issues, acupressure can be a valuable part of an overall weight control and exercise program. Acupressure not only relieves stress and anxiety, but can also reduce food cravings and false hunger pains. Because acupressure releases endorphins into the system naturally, it can provide a natural substitute for overeating or high-calorie foods. By lessening tension, reducing discomfort, and releasing endorphins, acupressure offers exceptional medical benefits.

     For healthy individuals, acupressure promotes better circulation, strengthens the immune system, reduces high blood pressure, and improves general mood and emotional health. By tapping into the body’s own natural healing system, acupressure is an important additional element in any holistic health regimen. If you do not wish to receive further emails from this person, all you have to do is click here to reject any future mailings.

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Tags: Acupressure, Massage, Pain, Relax, Tension

This entry was posted on Monday, March 29th, 2010 at 7:31 pm and is filed under Complementary Therapies, General Health, Holistic Health. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.