Acupressure Stomach Pain
Contents
- 1 What pressure point relieves stomach pain?
- 2 What does rubbing your stomach clockwise do?
- 3 Where is the 36 acupressure point of the stomach?
- 4 Can I massage my lower abdomen?
- 5 Which finger do you press to release gas?
- 6 Why does my stomach hurt and I can’t fart?
- 7 Can you push gas out of your stomach?
What pressure point relieves stomach pain?
Acupressure points for gas and bloating – Acupressure points are located all around the body along what traditional Chinese medicine refers to as “meridians,” or energy pathways. Each meridian corresponds to an organ inside the body, and each acupressure point is named after its location along the meridian.
- upper abdominal organs
- parasympathetic nervous system
- master energy
Point location: Roughly 3 inches below the kneecap, about 1 inch toward the outer edge. To massage this point:
- Place two fingers on the zusanli point.
- Move fingers in a circular motion using gentle, firm pressure.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes and repeat on the other leg.
Sanyinjiao, also known as SP6, is located on the spleen meridian and is believed to influence:
- lower abdominal organs
- parasympathetic nervous system
Point location: Roughly 3 inches above the bone of the inner ankle. To massage this point:
- Place one to two fingers on the sanyinjiao point.
- Move fingers in a circular motion using gentle, firm pressure.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes and repeat on the other leg.
Qihai, also known as CV6, is located on the conception vessel meridian and is thought to influence:
- lower abdominal organs
- overall energy
Point location: Roughly 1 1/2 inches below the navel. To massage this point:
- Place two to three fingers on the point location.
- Using gentle pressure, move fingers in a circular motion. Make sure not to press too hard, as this area can be sensitive.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes.
Zhongwan, also known as CV12, is also located on the conception vessel meridian and is believed to influence:
- upper abdominal organs
- yang organs, including the bladder and gallbladder
Point location: Roughly 4 inches above the navel. To massage this point:
- Place two to three fingers on the zhongwan point.
- Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion, making sure not to press too hard.
- Massage for 2–3 minutes.
Weishu, also known as BL21, is located on the bladder meridian and is thought to influence:
- abdominal pain
- gastrointestinal disorders
Point location: Roughly 6 inches above the small of the back and 1 1/2 inches outward on either side of the spine. To massage this point:
- Place one to two fingers on the weishu point.
- Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion.
- Massage for 1–2 minutes. Do not massage this point if you have any contraindicated conditions, such as a slipped disk or spine weakness.
The research on using acupressure for digestive conditions is sparse, with most of the research focusing on acupuncture instead. However, there is some clinical research that suggests acupressure may have a positive impact on painful digestive symptoms such as gas and bloating.
In one study, researchers investigated the effects of acupressure on 70 hemodialysis patients with constipation. During the study period, patients underwent acupressure 3 times per week for a period of 4 weeks. The researchers found that stimulation of the common abdominal acupressure points resulted in increased gas release and improved bowel function.
In a similar study from 2015, researchers analyzed the benefits of acupressure for 78 adult psychiatric patients with constipation. The study participants self-administered acupressure for a period of 10 days and were assessed for the severity of their symptoms.
- According to the results, participants in the acupressure intervention group experienced a reduction in constipation symptoms, such as gas and bloating.
- Although the research indicates that acupressure can have positive effects on gastrointestinal symptoms, more research is still needed to determine the benefits.
Acupressure is a relatively safe health practice. However, individuals with certain chronic conditions, such as bleeding disorders or chronic pain, should speak with their doctor before trying acupressure. When you perform acupressure on yourself, you should always use firm, but gentle pressure on the skin.
- Rule out food intolerances. Food intolerances and allergies can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and more. Limit any foods that your body doesn’t tolerate.
- Eat more slowly. When you eat quickly, you’re more likely to take in excess air, which can turn into gas. Eating smaller meals can also help reduce post-meal bloating.
- Increase your fiber intake. Fiber is important for a healthy digestive tract. Eating enough fiber can help you avoid the uncomfortable symptoms of constipation.
- Try prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics and probiotics are beneficial for your gut bacteria. Eating foods high in these nutrients can give your gut what it needs to run smoothly.
Outside of more serious underlying conditions, constipation, diarrhea, and excess gas are common causes of stomach pain. According to the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP), there are over 28 acupressure points that are indicated for abdominal pain. Some of these points include:
- baohuang (BL48): located beneath each side of the small of the back
- fushe (SP13): located by the hipbones
- wailing (ST26): located below each side of the navel
- yuji (LU10): located at the base of each thumb
Much of the research on acupressure for digestive conditions focuses on using acupressure to reduce the symptoms of chronic constipation, In the studies mentioned above, the following additional acupressure points were indicated for constipation:
- daheng (SP15): located on either side of the navel
- hegu (LI4): located below each index finger
- quchi (LI11): located along the inner crease of each elbow
- taichong (LV3): located above each large toe
- tianshu (ST25): located on either side of the navel
If you’re experiencing chronic gas, bloating, and other digestive issues, it’s important to visit a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions. Once you understand what’s causing your symptoms, you and your doctor can discuss a treatment plan that includes holistic treatment options, such as acupressure or acupuncture.
Which finger to press for stomach pain?
Inner gate point – The inner gate point is not directly on the hand. To find it, place the hand palm up and use three fingers to measure roughly an inch down the wrist. The inner gate point is here, approximately in the center of the wrist. Practitioners recommend using the thumb of the other hand to firmly massage this pressure point to relieve nausea and stomach pain.
Where are the acupressure points for lower abdominal pain?
Here are the points to use – Click through the slideshow to learn the sequence at your own pace, then watch the video.
This point is located on the arm, three finger breadths from the wrist crease on the inner forearm in between the two tendons. Position the hand palm up. Measure three fingers (finger widths of the person receiving acupressure) up from the crease of the wrist. This point is located on the lower leg, four finger widths below the knee, near the outer edge of the shin. Measure four finger widths (of the person receiving acupressure) down from the bottom edge of the knee cap. The point is at this level, one finger width out from the height of the shin bone. This point is located on the midline of the abdomen, midway between the umbilicus and the sternocostal angle. Run the forefinger along upward the lower margin of the ribcage, into the fleshy depression immediately below the solid bony edge of the sternum. This point is located on the lower abdomen, approximately two of the patient’s fingers widths below the umbilicus. Measure approximately two of the patient’s fingers widths below the umbilicus, on the midline. Apply pressure with one or two fingers. This area may be sensitive to pressure, especially if the patient is experiencing stool or urinary retention.
Video Back to GI/nausea sequences
How should I massage my stomach when it hurts?
Always do the massage from right to left, in a clockwise motion.1 Lay down on the floor or on a firm mattress. ease the tension of the abdomen and reduce any pain you may have when pressing on tender spots. moderate pressure from under the left ribcage down to the front of the left hipbone, 10 times.
What does rubbing your stomach clockwise do?
Abdominal Massage Benefits – 1. Improves Digestion Function Stomach massage has its roots in ancient Chinese medicine. It has been used as a centuries-old practise to detoxify the body and improve digestive health.Since emotional stress is held in the gut, the act of massaging the stomach can help to reduce tension and heal the emotional body – resulting in fewer digestive complaints.
- As the muscles in the stomach relax, digestion is stimulated and clients can enjoy fewer stomach upsets such as gas, bloating and cramping.
- Gentle pressure applied in a clockwise motion around the stomach can help those with serious digestive issues as well as those with an endotracheal tube.2.
- Relieves Constipation Massaging the stomach can relieve constipation and help improve bowel movements and frequency.
As the stomach muscles relax with gentle, sustained pressure, the digestive system ‘wakes up’ and gets everything moving. Studies into abdominal massage and constipation found that the group who received massage to the stomach experienced a reduction in constipation and an increase in regular, healthy bowel movements.
Incorporating essential oils such as peppermint may also enhance the benefits of abdominal massage. Massage therapists can also focus on the CV6 and CV12 acupressure points to further improve constipation symptoms.3. Boosts Immune System A significant portion of our immune system is located within the gut.
A healthy gut contributes to better overall health and immunity, helping our bodies to fight viruses and diseases. By getting an abdominal massage, the lymphatic system is stimulated, leading to detoxification and a boost to the body’s natural defence system.4.
- Improves Posture The abdominal muscles make up your core muscle group.
- If the muscles in the core are weak or too tight, it can lead to poor form and bad posture resulting in injury.
- Abdominal massage can rectify this by loosening the ab muscles and improving elasticity,
- This makes the muscles more fluid and able to attain a full range of motion and function.5.
Releases Physical Tension and Emotional Stress Most people have felt a “knot in the gut” when stressed or anxious. This uneasy feeling can be accompanied by trapped gas and muscle spasms, including pelvic floor dysfunction.The act of abdominal massage has both psychological and physical benefits,
For one, massage induces relaxation, allowing the nervous system to regulate and induce a sense of calmness in mind and body. Secondly, physical pressure applied to the stomach releases any knots or physical tension associated with emotional stress.6. Alleviate PMS Pain Those who experience PMS are no strangers to stomach-related issues including pain, cramping, bloating, gas and indigestion.
From menstruation to ovulation and reproductive-related issues such as PCOS and endometriosis, women’s bodies are susceptible to pain and sensitivities in the abdominal and pelvic regions. Abdominal massage can act as a natural pain relief for PMS and related symptoms by reducing muscle spasms, relaxing the stomach and pelvic floor muscles, and improving overall mood.
Where is the 36 acupressure point of the stomach?
Skip to content One of the points we often use in the treatment room is Stomach 36 (ST36, Zu San Li, “Leg Three Mile”). Commonly used for gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea and vomiting, stress and fatigue, ST36 is located four finger widths down from the bottom of your knee cap, along the outer boundary of your shin bone. Although this point has a strong association with digestion, in traditional Chinese literature and practice, ST36 is frequently stimulated for health promotion and longevity. The legend associated with the point “Leg Three Mile” gives a sense of its purpose: Chinese warriors would wear leather sashes with stones hanging from either side of their waist while they hiked across the vast countryside to protect their nation.
- When the warriors became exhausted, to the point where they just couldn’t go any further, they would kneel down to rest.
- The stones would naturally land at Stomach 36 on each leg.
- Upon arising from this bended knee position, with pressure on Stomach 36, when the soldiers arose they found extra hidden renewed strength and were able to hike “three more miles” Generally, Stomach 36 is known to: tonify Qi and Blood, harmonize and strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, raise Yang, calm the Shen, activate the meridian, and stop pain.
It’s great for energy, immune-boosting, and aiding digestion. And if you need to walk three more miles on the treadmill, it might help with that too! To use this as an acupressure point at home, first locate the point (four finger widths down from bottom of knee cap, confirm area by moving foot up and down).
Where is acupressure point for IBS?
3.12 CV6 – CV6, also known as the Sea of Energy, is considered to be one of the most effective acupressure spots for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. It is a longevity point that may be helpful in boosting the general health of the body. This point is situated near the center of the lower abdomen, two finger widths below the belly button.
Can I massage my lower abdomen?
Other benefits – In addition to the benefits above, abdominal massage may also:
- aid in weight loss
- encourage relaxation
- tone and strengthen the abdominal muscles
- release physical and emotional tension
- release muscle spasms
- increase blood flow to the abdomen
- benefit abdominal organs
However, there isn’t specific research proving the effectiveness of abdominal massage in bringing about many of these benefits, including weight loss. Generally, abdominal massage is safe for most people provided it’s done in a gentle and safe manner:
- Don’t have an abdominal massage if you’ve had recent abdominal surgery.
- Talk to your doctor before getting an abdominal massage if you’re pregnant or have any health concerns.
- It’s best that you don’t eat any heavy or spicy foods for a few hours before and after an abdominal massage.
Drink plenty of water after the massage. To perform abdominal massage on yourself:
- Lie flat on your back with your belly exposed.
- Overlap your hands on your lower belly and hold them here as you focus on your breath.
- Warm your hands by rubbing them together for about 30 seconds.
- Apply any oils that you’re using.
- Use the palm of your hand to massage your entire stomach in a clockwise direction several times.
- Then massage the centerline of your abdomen, starting below your sternum and ending at your pubic bone.
- Do three more lines an inch apart down the left side of the abdomen.
- Do the same on the right side of the abdomen.
- Then press your fingers into your navel firmly.
- Continue massaging with gentle pressure and circle outward from your navel in a clockwise direction.
- You can spend extra time on specific areas or trigger points that feel like they need some extra attention.
- Do this for up to 20 minutes.
If you don’t feel comfortable massaging yourself, you can also have your abdomen massaged by a massage therapist. Call before you make your appointment to see if the therapist performs abdominal massage. Not all masseuses provide this service. Abdominal massage is a low-risk treatment option that you can use to help several health conditions.
Which finger do you press to release gas?
2. Lower Back Points – Where They Are: The lower back acupressure points for gas are located on the lower side of your body on the waist level. They are also referred to as the Sea of Vitality. There are 4 lower back points for gas and are located on the level of your waist. 4. Hand Point s Where They Are: The acupressure points for gas on your hand are located on your wrist’s backside, also known as Inner Gate Point. They are located in the middle of the back of your wrist. How It Helps: Applying gentle and mild pressure on the hand acupressure points for gas helps in eliminating stomach aches, nausea and also improves your digestion process. 5. Leg Three Miles Where They Are: The acupressure point for gas known as the Stomach 36 is also known as Zu San Li that means ‘leg three miles’. The name basically refers to these points can reinforce your energy and enables people to walk for three miles easily even when they are exhausted.
Where do you massage for trapped gas?
Start with right hand in a fist placed in lower right groin. You can add other hand over first for added pressure. Slide the hand up the abdomen towards the ribcage, then across the abdomen and then down the left hand wall. This will assist in propelling faecal matter along the gut.
Why does my stomach hurt and I can’t fart?
Trouble Passing Gas – The flipside of excessive gas is the inability to pass gas, which can also be a symptom of an underlying problem, like an abdominal obstruction. An intestinal blockage is a serious condition and occurs as a result of a partial or total blockage of the small or large intestine.
- According to the Mount Sinai Medical Center, a tumor, scar tissue (adhesions), or narrowing of the intestines are all likely causes of abdominal obstruction.
- If you’re experiencing gas pain and you either can’t pass gas or have excessive flatulence, speak to your healthcare provider.
- They may be able to offer at-home solutions to your digestive woes.
Or your doctor may schedule tests to determine if your gas pain is caused by another, more serious problem. Read on to learn more about some of the causes of gas pain.
How long will trapped gas last?
Underlying conditions – Some digestive conditions may cause a person to produce more gas than usual or to experience more severe symptoms when they have gas. These conditions include:
small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) gastroesophageal reflux disease ( GERD ) irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) celiac disease lactose intolerance fructose intolerance dumping syndrome bowel obstruction colon cancer
Learn more about possible causes of abdominal bloating. People can take many measures to reduce or prevent trapped gas and gas symptoms. For example, they can take steps to swallow less air. These steps may include eating slower, avoiding gum and hard candies, and not using a straw. A doctor may also suggest adopting healthful lifestyle changes, if necessary, such as:
Exercising more regularly: Physical activity can help enhance the functioning of the digestive system. Quitting smoking : Smoking causes people to swallow air, and it may also irritate the digestive system. Making dietary changes: Avoiding certain foods, particularly if people are aware of foods that trigger symptoms, can help reduce gas, Eating smaller, more frequent meals may also be beneficial.
Some OTC medicines may also help people pass gas more easily or produce less gas while digesting foods. A doctor will likely diagnose trapped gas by taking the person’s medical history and carrying out a physical exam. They will also ask the person about their symptoms, eating habits, and current medication.
- During the physical exam, the doctor will usually check for pain, bloating, swelling, or tenderness in the abdomen.
- They may also listen to the area using a stethoscope.
- If the doctor suspects that an underlying condition is causing excessive gas or increasing the symptoms of trapped gas, they may order more tests.
Alternatively, they may ask the person to keep a food diary to see whether specific foods are causing gas. Trapped gas is not usually serious, so it should not generally be a cause for concern. However, if a person frequently experiences trapped gas, or the discomfort lasts for a long time, it may be advisable to seek medical attention.
A person should also speak with a doctor if their symptoms suddenly change, or they experience additional symptoms, such as constipation, diarrhea, or weight loss. A doctor may be able to diagnose an underlying condition causing excessive gas or identify another reason for the abdominal discomfort. Everyone passes gas.
However, some digestive conditions can cause excessive gas production, as can eating certain foods. The excess gas may not pass easily through the digestive system, resulting in trapped gas. While trapped gas may cause discomfort, it usually passes on its own after a few hours.
Can you push gas out of your stomach?
Some yoga poses, such as the child’s pose, may help release gas that has built up or relieve cramps and bloating caused by the buildup. Dietary tips can help prevent gas from building up. Farting is a natural process and often occurs without help, but sometimes a buildup of gas in the body can cause pain and bloating.
Certain foods or eating too quickly can be the cause of gas, but tightness in the abdominal muscles may also be partially to blame. In these cases, it may help to use one or more poses or other techniques to help the body fart. Most of these yoga poses, also called asanas, are best done alone and in a comfortable setting.
They can be practiced anywhere if needed, but relaxation is key to being able to pass gas, so it is essential for a person to feel comfortable in their surroundings. The following poses may help a person pass gas: Share on Pinterest Carbonated beverages such as sparkling water may help to release gas that has built up.
In addition to these positions, rubbing the abdomen in a clockwise motion may help get rid of trapped gas and reduce cramps and bloating. Some foods and drinks may also help a person pass gas. While these may not be a good idea if a person already has excessive bloating and pain, they may help someone release gas more easily.
Foods and drinks that may help a person fart include:
carbonated beverages and sparkling mineral waterchewing gumdairy productsfatty or fried foodsfiber-rich fruitssome artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol and xylitol
Farting is the way the body releases swallowed air and other trapped gasses. The positions listed above may help relieve gas temporarily, but many people also look for ways to reduce the need to pass gas. While it may be impossible to make farts disappear completely, there are some ways to reduce the number of times a person has to pass gas each day.
Many foods increase the amount of gas that results from the digestion of food. Beans are well-known culprits, but these pulses contain many nutrients so should still be included in a healthful diet. Soaking beans before cooking them may help reduce flatulence in some people, while others may want to limit the quantity of beans they eat.
Cutting down on other foods that cause gas may help as well. This includes foods high in sulfur or certain fermentable carbs and fibers, such as:
cauliflowercabbagebroccoli kale Brussels sproutsartichokesasparagusapplespearspeachesbeercarbonated drinks
Dairy foods, including cheese and ice cream, may also cause gas, especially for people who are sensitive to lactose. Another important tip is to chew all food slowly and with a closed mouth. A lot of trapped gas is swallowed air, which is more likely to happen if a person eats quickly or with their mouth open.
While it is not always best to hold in a fart, sometimes it is necessary. Whether in a crowded room or on a first date, there are plenty of reasons to hold in potentially embarrassing gas until it can be let out discreetly. Clenching the anus may help in the short term, and changing positions until the gas shifts in the body may also help.
The best solution is for a person to take a moment to relieve the gas in a bathroom or away from other people. This way it will not build up and lead to uncomfortable bloating or pain. Farting may be socially unacceptable in some places, but it is a natural bodily function.