Acupressure massage and back pain management

Research studies published in the British Medical Journal confirm the successful application of acupressure for back pain.
Studies indicated after 6 acupressure treatments, participants revealed both an immediate and long lasting improvement of their condition.

Another study at the National Taiwan University for the management of chronic back pain concluded that acupressure was effective in reducing back pain in terms of disability, pain scores, and functional status with the benefits of acupressure continual for 6 months.
World Health Organisation approves acupressure as an effective option treatment for pain relief.

Acupressure massage points to get relief from back pain:

There are few acupressure points which can help you get relief from lower back pain.
These acupoints are LI 4, LV 3, GB 30, B 48,K 27

LI 4: Acupressure Point LI 4 is called Union Valley, (Hegu/ He Gu in Chinese) and is referred as a channel of energy associated with the large intestine. For any kind of discomfort and pain, acupressure therapy is suggested alongwith Li 4 point because it helps in getting relief from pain or aches.

Large Intestine 4 is located on the dorsum of the hand between the first and second metacarpal bones in the middle of the second metacarpal bone on the radial side.

LV 3:  It also help alleviating pain and calms spasms.
Liver 3 is located on the dorsum of the foot, in the depression just distal to the junction of the first and second metatarsal bones.

Acupressure point B48: The B 48 is called the “Womb and Vitals” Location: One to two finger widths outside the large bony area at the base of the spine (sacrum) and midway between the top of the hipbone (iliac crest) and the base of the buttocks.

These points (at both side of the body) are also excellent for postpartum recovery. Benefits: Relieves lower-backache, sciatica, pelvic tension, hip pain and tension, bladder weakness, urinary problems, hemorrhoids, lower backaches, and pain that goes down the leg. For Sciatica: These acupressure points are the most effective spots on the body for relieving sciatica and hip pain. To relieve this pain, get a one-pound sack of beans and lay on your side so the sack of beans presses into these points. Adjust the position of your legs so it hurts good.

Acupressure point GB 30: It is also called Jumping Circle.
Location: In the lower back (between the second and third vertebrae) two to four finger widths away from the spine at waist level. Benefits: Relieves back aches, sciatica and fatigue. It also helps get relief from frustration, irritation, hip pain, and rheumatism relaxing the tendons and restoring joint mobility. These points are above B48 and very effective at relieving the exhaustion of back pain. Use this point whenever you are feeling frustrated or irritable. This point is also beneficial for rheumatism.

K 27: According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupressure point K 27 on your chest is an effective point for relieving throat, chest, and back pain. K 27 also opens your ability to breathe deeply, which is key to releasing endorphins, the neuro-chemicals that relieve pain. K 27 is the master Yu Point; its also the exit point of the kidney meridian.
Point Location: To find the K 27 acupressure points place your fingertips below your collarbone.
Use your right hand to press the left side of K 27 on your chest, with your left hand pressing the right side of K 27. Use enough pressure to connect with the tightness or soreness. Hold for 2 minutes as you breathe slowly and deeply.
Repeat 3 to 5 times daily for greater effectiveness.

You may get help from a family member for acupressure massage, but if you are alone then use soft tennis balls to get acupressure massage or therapy on B 48 and GB 30 points.
Place balls against the wall. Use of socks and place the tennis ball inside it as it helps keeping the ball in position.
Put ball between wall and back muscles. Squat pressing ball into the wall and move up and down, left and right. If your sore press lightly and than move to other side. Rotate each side until soreness goes away. .

These points can be very tender, so light touch may be needed. Apply firm and steady pressure on this point for at least 60 seconds on both sides as often as necessary.

Download pdf of 'Self help acupressure guide for back pain'

* Fight lower back pain using acupressure