by Dr. Alex Heyne Contributor

Acupressure for Stomach Aches: Press the Pain Away

Acupressure, an ancient healing technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has long been valued for its ability to restore balance and promote wellness by stimulating specific pressure points on the body. In recent years, this approach has gained popularity as a way to manage a variety of health concerns, including stomach discomfort.

By targeting key acupressure points, you can help alleviate stomach aches and digestive distress, offering a gentle, non-invasive alternative to conventional remedies. In this post, we’ll explore how acupressure works to ease stomach pain and share practical steps to try it yourself.

Table of Contents:

Understanding Stomach Aches
- Common Causes
- Symptoms
What is Acupressure
- How Acupressure Works
- Acupressure vs. Acupuncture
Key Acupressure Points for Stomach Pain
- ST36
- LV3
- Ren12
- SP4
How to Perform Acupressure
- Step-by-Step Guide
- When to Use Acupressure
Additional Tips to Enhance Acupressure
When to Seek Medical Help
Conclusion

Understanding Stomach Aches

Common Causes of Stomach Pain

Stomach pain can arise from a variety of causes, many of which are linked to lifestyle, dietary choices, or underlying health conditions:

Digestive Issues: Indigestion, gas, bloating, and constipation are among the most common culprits. These issues often occur after consuming large meals, rich or fatty foods, or due to dehydration.
Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can disrupt normal digestive function, leading to pain, nausea, or a feeling of tightness in the stomach.
Food Intolerances or Allergies: Certain foods, such as lactose or gluten, can trigger stomach discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition that can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
Menstrual Cramps: For many individuals, stomach pain is a common symptom during menstruation, often accompanied by bloating and lower abdominal discomfort.

Symptoms of Stomach Aches

The experience of stomach pain can vary widely depending on its cause. Here are the most common symptoms:

Sharp or Cramp-Like Pain: May occur suddenly and intensely, often linked to conditions like gas, IBS, or menstrual cramps.
Bloating and Fullness: A sensation of tightness or swelling in the abdomen, often due to digestive issues.
Nausea or Vomiting: Commonly associated with indigestion, stress, or food-related problems.
Diarrhea or Constipation: Digestive irregularities often accompany stomach pain, particularly with IBS or food intolerances.
Feeling of Discomfort or Heaviness: A persistent unease in the stomach, which can signal overindulgence, stress, or an underlying condition.

Understanding these causes and symptoms can help identify potential triggers and determine the best course of action for relief.

Read More: Chinese Herbs for Stomach Pain

What is Acupressure?

Acupressure is a therapeutic technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to promote healing, alleviate pain, and improve overall health. This ancient practice is a cornerstone of TCM and is used to restore balance and stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities.

How Acupressure Works

Acupressure operates on the principle of energy channels, known as meridians, which run throughout the body. These meridians are believed to correspond to different organs and systems, creating a holistic connection between various parts of the body.

Here’s how acupressure promotes wellness:

Stimulates Natural Healing: Pressure applied to specific points helps the body activate its natural self-repair mechanisms.
Reduces Tension: Targeted pressure can alleviate muscle tightness and relieve stress, which are often contributors to pain and discomfort.
Improves Circulation: By enhancing blood flow, acupressure supports nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues, aiding recovery.

Acupressure vs. Acupuncture

While both techniques target the same energy points, there are distinct differences:

Feature	Acupressure	Acupuncture
Method	Uses pressure (fingers, tools)	Uses needles
Invasiveness	Non-invasive	Involves skin penetration
Suitability	Ideal for at-home or self-care	Requires professional help

According to a 2017 scientific article, acupressure works by activating acupoints along meridians to balance the flow of Qi, helping reduce pain locally and in other parts of the body. This review discusses the different types of acupressure, the devices used, and the mechanisms behind its pain-relieving effects.

Additionally, a 2014 study reviewed the effectiveness of acupressure in managing various types of pain, including dysmenorrhea, labor pain, low back pain, chronic headaches, and traumatic pain. The review highlights acupressure’s potential as a complementary therapy, offering health care providers a credible alternative treatment for pain relief.

Key Acupressure Points for Stomach Aches

ST36 (Zusanli)

Location
- Four fingers below the bottom of your kneecap, along the outer edge of the shin bone.
Benefits:
- Promotes digestion.
- Alleviates nausea.
- Reduces bloating.
- Supports overall stomach health.
How to Use:
- Use your thumb to apply firm, circular pressure.
- Hold the pressure for 1-2 minutes on each leg.
- Relax and breathe deeply while applying pressure.

Regularly stimulating the ST36 point can provide effective relief from stomach aches and enhance your digestive system’s functionality.

A 2017 pilot study explored the effectiveness of acupressure in treating diabetes mellitus. Involving 30 participants divided into experimental and control groups, the study focused on acupressure at the Zusanli (ST-36) acupoint for 30 minutes per visit over 11 weeks. The control group continued their regular treatment.

Weekly blood glucose checks showed a significant reduction in blood sugar in the experimental group compared to the control group. The results indicated that acupressure at ST-36 was effective in lowering blood glucose levels and could help reduce diabetes complications. This suggests acupressure as a potential non-drug treatment for diabetes management.

LV3 (Taichong)

Location:
- Measure two to three finger widths above the wrist crease on the inner forearm.
- Locate the spot between the two tendons running down the center of your arm.
Benefits:
- Relieves nausea, including that caused by motion sickness or digestive issues.
- Eases stomach discomfort and promotes a sense of calm.
- Can also help reduce anxiety related to digestive distress.
How to Use:
- Use your thumb or forefinger to apply gentle yet firm pressure to PC6.
- Massage the point in a circular motion for about 1-2 minutes on each arm.
- Repeat as needed, especially before traveling or when experiencing nausea.

Ren12 (Zhongwan)

Location:
- Found in the middle of the abdomen, about four fingers above the navel.
Benefits:
- Alleviates indigestion and promotes smoother digestion.
- Reduces bloating and feelings of abdominal fullness.
- Eases general stomach pain and discomfort.
How to Use:
- Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
- Use your fingers to apply gentle but firm pressure to the Ren12 point.
- Massage the area in a circular motion for about 1-2 minutes.
- Repeat as needed to address stomach discomfort or after meals to enhance digestion.

SP4 (Gongsun)

Location:
- On the inside of the foot, just below the base of the big toe.
Benefits:
- Eases digestive issues, such as bloating and indigestion.
- Calms abdominal discomfort and supports digestive balance.
How to Use:
- Use your thumb or forefinger to apply steady pressure to the SP4 point.
- Hold the pressure for 1-2 minutes on each foot.

This simple technique can provide quick relief and support overall digestive health.

A 2024 systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of P6 and SP4 in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in cancer patients. Results indicated that both P6 and SP4 were effective in managing CINV, providing a safe, affordable, and non-invasive alternative to pharmaceutical treatments.

How to Perform Acupressure for Stomach Aches

Step-by-Step Guide to Acupressure

Step	Description
1. Find a Quiet Space	Choose a calm, relaxed environment to focus on the acupressure points effectively.
2. Get Comfortable	Sit or lie down in a position that allows easy access to the target points on your legs, feet, or abdomen.
3. Apply Pressure	Use your thumb, fingers, or knuckles to apply gentle yet firm pressure to the acupressure points.
4. Breathing	Take deep, slow breaths to relax your body and enhance the effectiveness of the acupressure.
5. Repeat as Needed	Spend a few minutes on each point and repeat as necessary until relief is achieved.

When to Use Acupressure

Acupressure is most beneficial when used at the early signs of discomfort, such as during digestive upset or abdominal tension. It can also be applied after meals to promote digestion or during moments of heightened stress to encourage relaxation.

Additional Tips to Enhance Acupressure Effectiveness

To enhance the effectiveness of acupressure, consider incorporating several complementary practices. First, stay hydrated by drinking water before and after acupressure to support digestion and help flush out toxins. Pair acupressure with mindful eating habits, avoiding common stomach triggers like spicy foods and caffeine to promote digestive health.

Managing stress is also essential, as stress often contributes to stomach discomfort, so practices like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial. For optimal results, make acupressure a regular part of your self-care routine to prevent digestive issues and boost overall wellness. Finally, combining acupressure with acupuncture can offer a holistic approach, with both treatments complementing each other to enhance your health and well-being.

A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure in managing cancer pain compared to sham interventions and analgesic therapy. The evidence, though moderate due to heterogeneity among studies, suggests that acupuncture and acupressure could be beneficial in reducing cancer pain and potentially lowering opioid dependence.

When to Seek Medical Help

While acupressure can be an effective tool for managing digestive discomfort, there are times when it may not be enough. If you experience severe or persistent pain that doesn’t improve with acupressure, or if you develop symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or blood in your stool, it’s important to seek medical help.

Sudden, sharp pain could indicate a more serious condition, such as appendicitis or gallstones, which requires immediate attention. In cases of persistent or severe stomach issues, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or acupuncturist for further evaluation and treatment. They can provide personalized care and ensure you’re addressing the underlying cause of your discomfort.

Conclusion

Acupressure offers a natural, non-invasive remedy for managing stomach aches, providing relief by targeting specific pressure points. It’s a gentle and accessible way to alleviate discomfort without the need for medication. However, it’s important to listen to your body and recognize when professional medical advice is needed.

While acupressure can be highly effective for many, severe or persistent symptoms may require further attention. By pressing away the pain with acupressure, you can often find comfort and relief from stomach aches, but always be mindful of your body’s signals and consult a professional when necessary.