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What Are the Benefits of Acupressure for Constipation?

Jennifer Leigh
Jennifer Leigh

The main benefit of acupressure for constipation is the relief of symptoms that include stomach pain and difficulty having a bowel movement. Constipation is a common problem that affects many people of varying ages, and is generally diagnosed when an individual has less than three bowel movements per week. Acupressure for constipation works by pressing on pressure points in the body that are thought to help with digestion. This can be done at home to help solve the problem without taking drugs or using other types of treatments. Individuals interested in utilizing acupressure for constipation should consider speaking with a physician or acupuncture specialist to make sure that the treatment is safe.

Constipation is a health problem that can cause many uncomfortable symptoms such as hard stools, a decrease in bowel movement frequency, and a strained feeling when having a movement. People who do not eat enough fiber, pregnant women, and those on certain medications experience constipation more often than others. Using acupressure, especially in conjunction with other treatments, can help eliminate these symptoms and provide relief for sufferers.

Acupressure performed on the hands can produce results in other parts of the body, including the digestive system.
Acupressure performed on the hands can produce results in other parts of the body, including the digestive system.

Acupressure is a treatment developed many years ago in traditional Chinese medicine and is utilized for many types of ailments. The theory behind the treatment is that problems occur in the body when energy centers are blocked, which takes place at pressure points. In the case of constipation, the digestive system is not working properly, so the pressure points used focus on the digestive system.

Acupressure may help induce a bowel movement.
Acupressure may help induce a bowel movement.

There are pressure points that are used often in acupressure for constipation, and they include the area on the hand between the index finger and the thumb, sometimes known as joining the valley. The spot directly under the belly button, called the sea of energy, can also help to stimulate digestion. The three-mile point, an area located on the front of the shins, can help strengthen digestion and relieve intestinal disorders. An area next to the elbow, known as the crooked pond, is a pressure point that affects the colon, constipation, and indigestion.

Constipation is a common problem that affects individuals of varying ages.
Constipation is a common problem that affects individuals of varying ages.

It is important for individuals interested in acupressure for constipation to speak with a trained individual to learn the proper techniques. In addition, some people suffering from constipation need to evaluate their hydration and diet in order to make changes that will help them to be healthier. When acupressure is done with healthy lifestyle changes, it has the best results.

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    • Acupressure performed on the hands can produce results in other parts of the body, including the digestive system.
      By: lunamarina
      Acupressure performed on the hands can produce results in other parts of the body, including the digestive system.
    • Acupressure may help induce a bowel movement.
      By: rob3000
      Acupressure may help induce a bowel movement.
    • Constipation is a common problem that affects individuals of varying ages.
      By: Africa Studio
      Constipation is a common problem that affects individuals of varying ages.