Acupressure Institute

How Chiropractors are Using Acupressure
Chiropractic and Acupressure complement each other and were traditionally practiced together in ancient China. Acupressure increases the circulation of blood and healing energy through the spinal column. This relaxes the back muscles and eases chiropractic adjustments, which tend to last longer. Chiropractors commonly hire acupressurists to release patient's back muscles in preparation to make the adjustments even more effective. Acupressure given after the chiropractic treatment stabilizes the adjustment and balances the patient's energy to promote greater healing. Some chiropractors also give their patients self-treatment points to practice at home and refer out to practicing acupressurists and massage therapists. Acupressure massage is a safe, effective way to reduce common stress-related problems. Acupressure releases muscular tension, enabling the blood to flow freely and allowing toxins to be released and eliminated. An increase in circulation also brings more oxygen and other nutrients to affected areas. Tension tends to concentrate around the acupressure points. In order to relax muscular tension and balance the vital life forces, acupressure utilizes a system of points (the same points as acupuncture) that have a high bioelectrical conductivity on the surface of the skin. Some Chiropractors use high-tech devices to stimulate the points and move energy through the spine and supporting back muscles. Primary Chiropractic Care Acupressure does not substitute for chiropractic care, but complements its effectiveness. In the case of a spinal misalignment due to an auto accident, for instance, acupressure would not be the first treatment choice. In such cases consult a chiropractor. Acupressure can; however, speed the healing once the spine has been adjusted and can help relieve the patient's associated pain and anxiety. Self-Acupressure & Chiropractic Care Acupressure is an ideal self-help therapy for chiropractic patients. They can quickly learn to locate the points and apply the correct pressure. Most points are within the patient's easy reach. By learning a few self-acupressure techniques, patients can enhance their chiropractic treatments and begin to take greater responsibility for their health. Patients who use acupressure find their adjustments are easier, more enjoyable and last longer. The following acupressure points, from Acupressure’s Potent Points, an A to Z point reference guide with hundreds of point illustrations, can be used effectively with chiropractic care: Self-Acupressure Vital Diaphragm (B 38) Location: Between the shoulder blades and the spine at the level of the heart. Benefits: This calming point balances the emotions, relieves anxiety, grief, and other emotional imbalances. Heavenly Pillar (B 10) Location: One-half inch below the base of the skull, on the ropy muscles located one-half inch out from the spine. Benefits: Relieves emotional distress, burnout, exhaustion, depression, and heaviness in the head. Gates of Consciousness (GB 20) Location: Below the base of the skull, in the hollows between two large neck muscles, two to three inches apart, depending on the size of the head. Benefits: Relieves depression, headaches, dizziness, stiff necks, and irritability.
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