Acupressure points are specific areas on your body where you can apply pressure to help energy flow and support healing.
I find it interesting that acupressure is a part of traditional Chinese medicine, just like acupuncture. However, instead of needles, you use your fingers, palms, or even some tools to press on these points.
I’m going to share with you my top 5 acupressure points that can help you find relief. I’ll show you where to find these points, how to apply pressure, and what you can expect.
Key Takeaways
- My top 5 acupressure points for shoulder pain relief are LI-15, TE-14, GB-21, SI-9, and Jian Jing. These points can help reduce pain and improve your range of motion.
- To get the best results, use your fingers and thumbs to apply pressure, try circular motions, and gradually increase the pressure.
- Acupressure not only helps with immediate pain relief but also supports long-term healing and better mobility, so regular practice is key.
Key Acupressure Points for Shoulder Pain Relief
Acupressure is a great way to get rid of shoulder pain by applying pressure on certain points of your body. Each point, when stimulated correctly, can help you reduce pain and improve your mobility.
Here are 5 key acupressure points that are known to be effective in relieving shoulder pain:
Let’s take a closer look at each point and how to use them.
1. Large Intestine 15 (LI-15)
LI-15 is located below the outer end of your collarbone in a small concave area between the acromion and the greater tuberosity of the humerus.
This point is an effective way to relieve pain and improve your mobility.
Stimulating LI-15 regularly not only relieves discomfort but also improves the range of motion of your shoulder joint.
2. Triple Energizer 14 (TE-14)
TE-14 is located near your shoulder joint, specifically in the dip behind your shoulder. This point is great for relieving pain.
Applying steady pressure on TE-14 can help ease discomfort in that area.
3. Gallbladder 21 (GB-21)
To find GB-21, pinch the muscle on your shoulder. Use your thumb and middle finger to locate it. This point helps reduce muscle tension and improves blood flow in your shoulder.
Applying downward pressure with your index finger or thumb can relieve pain and stiffness in both your neck and shoulders.
4. Small Intestine 9 (SI-9)
SI-9 is located on your upper arm and is important for shoulder treatment. Pressing on this point can help reduce tension and discomfort in your muscles.
Since this point is connected to the small intestine meridian, treating SI-9 can also positively affect other areas along that pathway.
5. Jian Jing (GB-21)
You’ll find Jian Jing halfway between the highest point of your shoulder and the spinous process of your 7th cervical vertebra.
Applying firm pressure here for 30 seconds to a minute can significantly relieve shoulder tension and improve blood circulation.
Regularly stimulating Jian Jing can provide great relief from pain and stiffness.
Techniques for Applying Pressure
To make acupressure effective, it’s not just about finding the right points; it’s also about using the right techniques.
Here are some essential methods for applying pressure to acupressure points, so you can get the most out of your self-treatment.
Using Fingers and Thumbs
Using your fingers and thumbs allows you to target specific acupressure points with precision. Also, using circular motions can help you get the most out of your self-treatment sessions by evenly distributing pressure over the point.
In sensitive areas, start with gentle pressure and gradually increase it to avoid discomfort.
Circular Motion Technique
Massaging acupressure points with a circular motion can help increase blood flow and improve treatment outcomes.
Keeping a 90-degree angle of pressure prevents skin pulling, making your massage more effective.
This technique stimulates the area more thoroughly, leading to better pain relief.
Applying Gentle Pressure
For sensitive areas, gentle pressure is key to ensuring comfort during your treatments.
Start lightly and gradually increase the pressure as your tissues adjust, providing a soothing experience while still achieving relief.
This approach is especially beneficial for tender or sensitive spots.
Read Now : Meridians of the Body
Benefits of Acupressure for Shoulder Pain
Acupressure has numerous benefits for people who experience pain. By stimulating specific points, you can reduce pain, relax your muscles, and improve blood circulation.
These benefits not only help you feel better immediately but also promote long-term healing and improved mobility.
Immediate Relief
Applying firm pressure to specific acupressure points can help you relieve discomfort quickly. Many people experience immediate pain relief as tense muscles relax.
Stimulating these points can also help increase blood flow, which can help you heal faster and relieve pain immediately.
Long-Term Healing
Acupressure not only helps you relieve pain, but it can also help you recover from shoulder injuries over the long term.
Regular practice can help you prevent recurring shoulder pain by addressing underlying issues and improving your health.
This sustained improvement comes from increased blood circulation and reduced stiffness.
Improved Mobility
Consistent acupressure can help you improve your shoulder joint’s range of motion, making your shoulder more functional.
Regular treatments can increase your flexibility and improve your body function.
This improved mobility is especially helpful for people who suffer from chronic shoulder issues.
DIY Acupressure at Home
Acupressure is a convenient and effective way to treat pain at home. It can help improve blood flow, relax muscles, and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate neck and shoulder pain.
This section will show you how to set up a comfortable space for acupressure, self-massage, and partner-assisted massage. A relaxing environment and proper technique are key to acupressure.
Set up a comfortable space.
A space for acupressure should be 10 to 15 minutes. A calm and focused environment is key to the experience and treatment.
Make sure your space is comfortable, quiet, and distraction-free to get the most out of your acupressure sessions.
Self-Massage Techniques
Using fingers and thumbs to apply pressure on acupressure points allows for precise control and depth of pressure.
The middle finger is often preferred for self-acupressure as it’s stronger; the thumb may not be as sensitive.
Pressure applied consistently relieves temporal headaches, shoulder and neck tension, and upper back pain.
Partner-Assisted Acupressure
Having a partner helps to target hard-to-reach acupressure points more effectively, with more precise and intense pressure.
This collaborative approach can amplify the effect of acupressure and reach areas that are hard to access alone.
Preventing Shoulder Pain
Keeping your shoulders pain-free isn’t just about treating the pain when it happens. It’s about addressing the causes of the pain.
Making a few simple changes to your workspace, staying active, and managing stress can help keep your pain-free.
In this section, I’ll share some simple tips to help you prevent shoulder pain so you can feel good in the long run.
Ergonomic Adjustments
An ergonomic workspace can relieve shoulder strain, especially for those who sit for long hours.
Ergonomic furniture and good posture, like keeping the spine aligned and relaxed, reduce the risk of shoulder strain.
Adjustable chairs and desks are also good for better posture and less shoulder discomfort.
Regular Exercise
Daily exercise prevents shoulder stiffness. Low-impact aerobic exercise like swimming keeps shoulders flexible and healthy.
Regular exercise strengthens the muscles around the shoulder, reducing the risk of injury and pain.
Stress Management
Stress can cause tension in shoulder muscles and cause discomfort and pain. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation and regular breaks can prevent neck muscles and tension.
These can reduce stress-related symptoms like headaches, insomnia, and dizziness.
Bottom Line
At the end, I want to say, It’s a natural way to reduce discomfort by applying pressure to certain points such as Large Intestine 15 (LI-15), Triple Energizer 14 (TE-14), Gallbladder 21 (GB-21), Small Intestine 9 (SI-9), and Jian Jing (GB-21).
By using your fingers and thumbs to apply gentle pressure in a circular motion, you can reduce pain and improve movement and healing over time.
