How to Prepare for Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in which pressure points throughout the body are manipulated with the hands, knuckles and fingers. Acupressure is a form of acupuncture that does not employ needles, yet performs the same function. Pressure in certain areas can relieve pain, reduce swelling and eliminate stress. Before attending an acupressure appointment, there are several ways in which a patient should prepare for the session.
Things You'll Need:
Diary of symptoms
Soft, comfortable clothing
Light, protein-based snack
1
Start a diary detailing the symptoms of the illness, pain or other problem that brings you to acupressure as a treatment method. Be as specific as you can when describing the type of pain you experience using terms such as "intermittent," "constant," "stabbing," "dull ache" and so on. Write down how often you experience symptoms and any triggers if you know what they are.
2
Prepare the clothing that you will wear to an acupressure appointment. Needles are not used for acupressure, so clothing does not need to be removed. Provide easy access to pressure points on your limbs and neck by wearing soft garments that can be easily rolled up or pushed aside as needed.
3
Make sure your skin is clean and dry prior to an acupressure appointment. Refrain from using oils or creams that may leave a residue or make your skin slippery to the touch.
4
Remove your watch and earrings to prepare for acupressure. There are many pressure points on your ear that address pain and addictive behaviors and points on your wrist that can reduce nausea. Your acupressure practitioner can work more easily without jewelry on these areas of your body.
5
Eat a small, high-protein snack a couple of hours before your acupressure session. Avoid greasy foods that may upset your stomach. Eggs, cheese or yogurt are good choices that will provide you with enough energy and help reduce lightheadedness during your appointment.
6
Avoid strenuous activity for the 2 to 3 hours before your acupressure treatment. This includes heavy lifting and in some cases, sexual activity. Check with your practitioner for specific guidelines if you have any questions.
7
Relax your body and mind before acupressure. The treatment will be much more effective if you remove tension from your body. Close your eyes and focus on allowing the acupressure to alleviate your symptoms.
Tips & Warnings
Acupressure should be used as a treatment only with your doctor's knowledge and approval. Though acupressure in an effective pain-relief tool, this type of treatment cannot heal bacterial infections or other illnesses that require antibiotic medications.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2228249_prepare-acupressure.html
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in which pressure points throughout the body are manipulated with the hands, knuckles and fingers. Acupressure is a form of acupuncture that does not employ needles, yet performs the same function. Pressure in certain areas can relieve pain, reduce swelling and eliminate stress. Before attending an acupressure appointment, there are several ways in which a patient should prepare for the session.
Things You'll Need:
Diary of symptoms
Soft, comfortable clothing
Light, protein-based snack
1
Start a diary detailing the symptoms of the illness, pain or other problem that brings you to acupressure as a treatment method. Be as specific as you can when describing the type of pain you experience using terms such as "intermittent," "constant," "stabbing," "dull ache" and so on. Write down how often you experience symptoms and any triggers if you know what they are.
2
Prepare the clothing that you will wear to an acupressure appointment. Needles are not used for acupressure, so clothing does not need to be removed. Provide easy access to pressure points on your limbs and neck by wearing soft garments that can be easily rolled up or pushed aside as needed.
3
Make sure your skin is clean and dry prior to an acupressure appointment. Refrain from using oils or creams that may leave a residue or make your skin slippery to the touch.
4
Remove your watch and earrings to prepare for acupressure. There are many pressure points on your ear that address pain and addictive behaviors and points on your wrist that can reduce nausea. Your acupressure practitioner can work more easily without jewelry on these areas of your body.
5
Eat a small, high-protein snack a couple of hours before your acupressure session. Avoid greasy foods that may upset your stomach. Eggs, cheese or yogurt are good choices that will provide you with enough energy and help reduce lightheadedness during your appointment.
6
Avoid strenuous activity for the 2 to 3 hours before your acupressure treatment. This includes heavy lifting and in some cases, sexual activity. Check with your practitioner for specific guidelines if you have any questions.
7
Relax your body and mind before acupressure. The treatment will be much more effective if you remove tension from your body. Close your eyes and focus on allowing the acupressure to alleviate your symptoms.
Tips & Warnings
Acupressure should be used as a treatment only with your doctor's knowledge and approval. Though acupressure in an effective pain-relief tool, this type of treatment cannot heal bacterial infections or other illnesses that require antibiotic medications.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2228249_prepare-acupressure.html
