Acupuncture & Acupressure

Acupuncture

Acupuncture was developed in China 5,000 years ago. It can ease pain—especially nerve pain (called neuropathic pain)—and reduce nausea. It often works very quickly.

A trained acupuncture therapist inserts very thin needles to stimulate specific "energy lines" on the body called meridians.

Research shows that acupuncture is effective in dealing with the pain and nausea associated with chemotherapy.

Acupuncture helps people deal with anxiety and stress as well as physical problems.

Acupressure

This non-invasive form of massage therapy is related to acupuncture. A practitioner can do it, or in some cases you can perform it yourself.

Acupressure points are specific locations on the body. Pressing or massaging them releases the energy that may influence pain.

Shiatsu and reflexology are types of acupressure.

As a self-healing method, some people touch various acupressure points on their bodies while reciting an affirmation—a statement of a problem followed by a statement that is strongly positive.