Acupressure is as effective as Acupuncture

So you don't like the idea of being needled. That's cool, you won't hurt my (or any other acupuncturist's) feelings! There is always the option of having acupressure performed, rather than acupuncture.

One of the main questions that I get asked about acupressure is if it's as effective as acupuncture. The answer is yes. Acupuncture is merely one method of effecting someone's Qi. There are styles of "acupuncture" where the practitioner holds the needle next to your skin, but doesn't puncture it. There are practitioners who can treat patients from great distances - they don't even have to be in the same room let alone the same city!

One reason acupuncture seems more popular than acupressure is that it's easier. The metal of the needle works like a lightning rod, conducting the healing energy very easily through it. It takes a lot of control and power to be able to conduct the healing energy safely through yourself to your patient. Another reason people tend to prefer acupuncture over acupressure? The psychological effect that needling has. "If I'm being needled, it MUST be stronger than just pushing on my skin."

So, if you're not into the idea of being needled, feel free to talk to your acupuncturist about your preferences. Never is it NECESSARY to needle an acupoint. Acupressure works just as well.


Image courtesy of: www.bcrelax.com/acupressure/