Alternative medicine is a much-contested field. The skeptics chalk it up to placebo effect and call it nothing but mumbo jumbo. However, there are many people who swear by the benefits of it; after all, science is an ever-evolving field. What is unfounded today might get recognized by the scientists as genuine, tomorrow.
Regardless of the debate, one has to concede to the practices that have been going around for centuries now. Chinese medicine in particular has many aspects that are still being practiced today, with much success. One such example is of acupressure.
What is acupressure?
According to Chinese mythology, there are zones or channels in the body through which the essential energy, which keeps the body alive, flows. The communication within the body is carried through these vital channels, and they connect one organ to another. Any blockage in these channels, or any deviation in them, leads to illnesses.
Acupressure thus sets to correct the issues with these channels in the body. The expert exerts pressure on these channels to set them right. Massage, stretching etc. are also recommended modes of healing in this process.
Many people resort to acupressure for fixing issues like chronic headaches. While acupressure itself does not pose a direct danger to health, it is better to also consult an expert neurologist in Islamabad when accosted with recurring headaches.
Is acupressure a hoax: exploring the facts and myths!
As there is lack of empirical evidence to back up the folklore, many people still have qualms about it. However, fact is, if acupressure has managed to survive so long, it’s not all delusion.
Many doctors and medical experts also recognize it as valid treatment. WHO and NIH recognize acupuncture, and by extension, Chinese medicine as legitimate form of treatment. It is therefore important to explore into the different myths surrounding acupressure.
Myth: Acupressure works as a placebo only
Fact: Acupressure is not merely in your head. It acts as a pain reliever as when the pressure is exerted at the correct point as it stimulates the release of endorphins. These are hormones that are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. This is also why acupressure is also great for emotional and mental health as well.
According to the study published in the Clinal Journal of Sport Medicine, acupressure was very effective for decreasing pain intensity in athletes in the aftermath of injury, as opposed to those who were given no acupressure or sham acupressure.
Therefore, acupressure is not a myth or mere placebo; it is a genuine treatment option.
Myth: Acupressure is about exerting more pressure for more benefit
Fact: Acupressure may not be a conventional medical treatment, but it is based on certain principles and has method to it. Hence, in order for the treatment to be effective, it is important to abide by the rules of the technique alone.
According to experts, exerting too much pressure for too long will result in more injuries. Instead oscillate between 30-60 seconds of pressure. If you feel stimulating at the pressure point, you are exerting just the right amount of force. Always thus aim for this feeling when exerting pressure and not mindlessly pushing.
Myth: It is just good for pain treatment
Fact: Pain relief is just one aspect of acupressure. It also is successfully used in treating vomiting and nausea, especially amongst the patients undergoing chemotherapy. It is also great for de-stressing.
Acupressure is also used for boosting energy levels as well.
Myth: Acupressure is painful
Fact: In actuality, acupressure is not supposed to cause pain. If you are experiencing pain in the sessions, you need to talk to your therapist about it instead!
Myth: It gives instant results
Fact: Acupressure is not flicking wand and chanting abracadabra. It is a proper science that needs to run its course. In acute cases, you can see almost instant results, but the process of healing is more sophisticated.
Alongside further sessions, adequate lifestyle changes also need to be made for a holistic healing of the underlying ailment.
Myth: Acupressure is entirely harmless
Fact: Well, not exactly. There are certain people for which acupressure is not recommended and thus even if the process itself is relatively innocuous, it produces effects that are not.
People who have arthritis to bone disease should steer clear of this process.
Similarly, women who are pregnant should not opt for acupressure as putting pressure on certain points can induce contractions. Those suffering from varicose veins are also ill-fitted for this treatment.
Cancer patients also are not recommended this treatment. Acupressure is also not safe for those suffering from spinal injury; in any case, patients should always first consult with the best neurologist in Islamabad before opting for experimental treatment for spine as it’s a very sensitive issue.
To go or not to go for the acupressure, at the end of the day, is at patient’s own discretion!
