If you or a family member suffer from asthma, you might be looking for another alternative to the typical treatment options. With little to know side effects, acupuncture and acupressure just might be what you have been looking for. There are actually six common acupressure points that can help you manage your asthma symptoms.
Talk to your acupuncturist about your asthma symptoms so they can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan and advise you on how to get started with these acupressure points. They will also advise you on how often you might need to do acupressure. Acupressure is not meant to replace your inhaler or other asthma medications but may provide relief of symptoms over the course of time as you get better at recognizing your symptoms and working with your acupuncturist or other medical professional to treat your asthma and its underlying causes.
A simple definition of asthma is that it leads to inflammation of the airways. Studies have shown mixed results and researchers agree that more studies need to be conducted to fine tune the points and methods used to treat asthma. A systematic review of research has shown promise that acupuncture can be used as a treatment option for those suffering from asthma.
Acupoint Bl-12
This point relaxes the neck, back and shoulders which can help to relax the lungs. It’s no secret that stress can trigger asthma symptoms so this relaxation point can be very helpful as a method of treatment. The point is located on the upper back, specifically the second thoracic vertebrae.
Acupoint Bl-13
This point is different from the previous point as it relates directly to the support of respiratory health. This point is located one vertebra down (the third thoracic vertebrae) from Bl-12 and this point is specific to the lungs.
Acupoint Ren-22
This point is part of a line of pressure points that runs up the center of the chest. This point can calm the lungs, improve regular function, and help to reduce the mucus that can sometimes restrict breathing. You can find this point at the front of your neck where your collar bones make an indentation. The Ren-22 point is directly in the center of this divot, directly above the esophagus.
Acupoint Ren-17
Also part of the same line where Ren-22 is found, this point is quite a bit lower on the chest and works to clear the lungs and reduce pain. One way to locate this point is to find your 4th and 5th ribs and then move to the center of your chest to locate your sternum between these two ribs.
Acupoint LU-7
This point is part of the lung channel and is considered the exit point of the lung. When this point is used it can regulate and strengthen the lungs for improved breathing. This point is located nowhere near the lungs but on the wrist.
Acupoint LU-10
This point is also part of the lung channel but is closer to the hand. It has been known to clear the throat and reduce chest pain. Often, the focus during an asthma attack is the lungs but the throat can be impacted as well, making this a point that can also treat the complete respiratory system.
Again, make sure you talk to your acupuncturist about your specific symptoms and the severity of your asthma. They will work with you to develop an effective treatment plan that may involve addressing other issues such as allergies that might be contributing to your symptoms. Make an appointment today so you can begin to learn how these points and other acupuncture treatments could help you breathe easier again.