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Acupressure: A Respected Therapy Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Acupressure forms part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Practitioners apply firm, targeted pressure to specific points on the body to encourage relaxation and improve symptoms. Unlike acupuncture, acupressure works without needles and uses fingers, palms, elbows or specialised tools to stimulate recognised points along meridians or channels.

What the research tells us

High-quality reviews show that stimulation of the wrist point PC6 (Pericardium 6) reduces postoperative and chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting compared with sham or no treatment. Several meta-analyses support a meaningful reduction in nausea when PC6 receives targeted stimulation.

Evidence for pain relief is more mixed but promising in certain settings: systematic reviews report short-term reductions in symptoms for some types of musculoskeletal pain and osteoarthritis when acupressure is used as a single or complementary intervention. Many trials vary in quality, so clinicians generally treat acupressure as an adjunct rather than a replacement for established care.

How acupressure is practised

Practitioners usually assess symptoms and deliver treatment while the client wears light clothing. Sessions commonly last 30–60 minutes. The therapist applies steady pressure to selected acupoints and may combine this with massage, movement or stretching to address muscle tension and local circulation.

Western explanations focus on measurable mechanisms such as modulation of peripheral nerves, improved blood flow and release of endorphins; these physiological effects can help explain symptom improvement observed in clinical trials.

Typical clinical uses

  • Nausea and vomiting: PC6 wrist stimulation shows consistent benefit for postoperative, chemotherapy-induced and pregnancy-related nausea in multiple trials and reviews.
  • Pain management: Studies report reductions in back pain, headache and some postoperative pain measures when acupressure is used alongside standard treatment. Evidence quality varies by condition and study design.
  • Labour and obstetric support: Reviews indicate acupressure may reduce labour pain and improve certain birth outcomes, though results require further robust trials.
  • Other uses: Research explores acupressure for anxiety, fatigue and cancer-related symptoms; preliminary findings look encouraging but need larger, higher-quality trials.

Safety and clinical precautions

Acupressure is generally considered safe when delivered by a trained professional. Adverse effects are typically minor (transient soreness, light-headedness) but can occur. People with the following should consult their GP before treatment:

  • a diagnosis of cancer, particularly where bone metastases may exist;
  • advanced osteoporosis or severe spinal injuries;
  • significant cardiovascular disease or bleeding disorders;
  • severe rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions where joint manipulation could harm.

Pregnancy: Some acupoints can stimulate uterine activity. Pregnant individuals should seek advice from a midwife or obstetrician before starting treatment.

How to choose a qualified practitioner

To protect your safety and maximise benefit, choose a practitioner who:

  • holds recognised training or certification in acupressure, TCM, physiotherapy or a regulated allied health profession;
  • works within professional boundaries and follows infection-control and record-keeping standards;
  • takes a full medical history, explains expected benefits and limitations, and obtains informed consent;
  • is willing to liaise with your GP or specialist for complex or chronic conditions.

Practical self-care guidance

For immediate, low-risk relief from nausea, PC6 can be located on the inner wrist and stimulated by applying steady pressure or using a specially designed wristband. This may provide fast relief, but medical advice is recommended for severe or persistent symptoms.

Summary

Acupressure is a non-invasive technique that can complement conventional care. The strongest evidence supports PC6 stimulation for nausea and vomiting. Evidence for pain and other conditions is promising but varied in quality. Patients should view acupressure as an adjunct to established medical treatment and consult a qualified practitioner to ensure safe and effective use.

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