Acupressure Points for Back Pain – Important Tips

Acupressure Points for Back Pain – Important Tips

Back pain is one of the most common pains in the body and is mainly caused by trauma.

This can be caused by straining one’s back at work while lifting, sports injuries, car accidents, or other similar events. Sometimes, chiropractic treatment, massage, Acupuncture, and physiotherapy are necessary.

However, as with Acupuncture, where fine needles are inserted into the skin, there is a more gentle way of alleviating back pain: acupressure. When using acupressure points for back pain, one uses one’s elbow, fingers, or thumbs to relieve the parts suffering from pain.

Always Consult a Doctor – Acupressure Points for Back Pain

If you experience back pain that persists for more than a few days, it is advisable to consult your doctor for an examination. Before opting for acupressure, our doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to help relieve the back pain.

Alternatively, they may refer you to a chiropractor, osteopath, or massage therapist if the pain persists. If one has normal back pain, it may not be serious; however, it can become a serious medical condition if one does not take care of it, and these include:

• Spinal joint sprains
• Muscle strains
• Spinal nerve irritation
• Spinal disc degeneration

This is why it is essential to visit your doctor to ensure that back pain does not become a severe medical condition. Acupressure treatment is suitable for typical back pain and will not cure severe back pain, especially if it is cancer-related.

If you decide to try acupressure after consulting with your doctor, schedule an appointment with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner to learn more about the available acupressure points for back pain. You may need about three treatments a week for about two weeks.

Back Acupoints:

Using Acupoints in the Back

Apart from where one may experience back pain, specific Acupoints along the spine help alleviate pain, particularly if they result from activities such as lifting heavy objects, arthritis, and other conditions.

These pressure points in the lower back are found just above the level of one’s hipbones within the Paraspinal muscles and are referred to as Acupoints B-23 and B-47. Stimulating these points on both sides of one’s spine helps to relieve painful lower back pain caused by pinched nerves or shooting leg pain.

You can easily use these acupressure points for lower back pain. Pressing down on these Acupoints with your thumb while holding them firmly for about one minute at a time and releasing them gradually will help to relieve pain.

Using Acupoints in the Hips

To relieve lower back pain and hip pain, one can use the Acupoint found on Acupoints. This point is found further down your backside, often referred to as the B-48 point, and found a few inches on the side to the tailbone – and outwardly to the right over the dimples above your butt muscles.

Using Acupoints in the Buttocks

In the fleshiest part of one’s buttocks, the pressure point G-30 is slightly below B-48, specifically in the Piriformis muscle beneath the larger Gluteus Maximus muscles. For best results, one needs to press down and inward with gradual movements of the thumb to the center of one’s buttocks.

Hold firmly without applying too much pressure for a few minutes and release gradually without irritating the nerves in this area. When treating back pain with acupressure, it is best to apply ice wrapped in a thin towel to the back and hip muscles for approximately 15 minutes. This helps alleviate the bruising and tenderness often associated with acupressure treatment.

Arm Acupoints for Back Pain

When one uses acupressure or Acupuncture, endorphins and serotonin are released in the body, acting as natural painkillers. Applying pressure between the thumb and forefinger, specifically at LI-4, is effective for alleviating back pain and other ailments.

Here, one can apply pressure while relaxing on a bed or sofa on this Acupoint for at least 10 seconds and release for 5 seconds – repeat this method at least three times.

Elbow Pressure Points

When applying acupressure to any point of the body, remember that these points may be tender when you first press on them. However, the feeling eventually subsides the more pressure you apply. When using the elbow pressure point, one must sit comfortably and raise one arm to locate this Acupoint, referred to as Acupoint U-6.

One can find this point below where your elbow joints flex in your lower arm. Alternatively, you can count on four fingers from your elbow and start with the side that hurts the most in your back. Apply pressure to this point for 30 seconds, three to four times throughout 5 to 10 minutes. After completing the side that hurts the most, move on to the other side.

After completing treatment for these points, apply some ice, as mentioned above, or use frozen gel packs, which help control pain and inflammation.

Leg Acupoints:

Applying Pressure to the Feet

While lying, one can stimulate the Acupoint found between the big and second toes, also known as the sleeping position. To achieve the best results, press down on the top of one foot in the webbing, hold firmly for 30 seconds, then gradually release and repeat with the other foot.

Another great option is to place your feet in an ice bath before applying pressure to prevent bruising.

Applying Pressure to the Soles

Another pressure point is highly beneficial when used while sitting in a relaxed position. It is found at the bottom of the feet, closer to the toes than the heel. One must massage the bottom of one’s feet for a few minutes before locating this Acupoint.

Here, you need to press down with your thumb firmly, hold for 30 seconds, and release. Remember to do both feet with short rests in between. Many people are sensitive to touch, and applying peppermint lotion can cause a tingling sensation, making them less sensitive to touch.

This point is excellent to help with back pain and prevent use for pregnant women, as this is another point to help induce uterine contractions.

Applying Pressure Behind the Knees

For relieving back stiffness and pain in the hips, knees, and legs, Acupoints B-54, located behind the knees below the knee joint center, and B-53, found a few inches on the side of the knee joint of the calf muscle, are most effective.

Here, you need to use your thumb and press for 30 seconds behind both knees successively, a technique known as the “commanding middle” by acupressure therapists.

Acupressure Points for Different Back Pains

Acupressure points for back pain are a conventional physical therapy that can relieve pain in the back caused by different ailments.

Back pain is often caused by stress, fatigue, and muscle spasms. Therefore, applying pressure to specific points helps the body heal from infections.

You can use the treatment for pain arising from injuries, tension, and stiffness. Therefore, if you suffer from regular back pain, you can use the following acupoints to help relieve lower, mid, and upper back pain.

As mentioned, there are different acupoints for treating back pain. To make it simpler for you, we have categorized them into groups.

Acupressure Points to Relieve Back Pain:

Applying pressure to the following acupressure points for back pain relief can help make the pain more bearable:

1. GB 21 Acupressure Point

Jian Jing therapists use it to help relieve stiffness, neck pain, headaches, and shoulder tension. Therefore, the acupoints are effective if you experience stress in the back or joints. However, if you are pregnant, we do not recommend using this pressure point as it can induce labor.

Position of GB21

The Acupoint is located at the base of the neck, on top of the shoulders.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Use your opposite hand and rub the upper shoulder to find the pressure point
• Once you find GB21, curve your index and middle finger to hook it over the spot
• Apply pressure by letting the hook support the weight of your arm
• Massage and hold for up to five seconds 

2. GB 10 Acupressure Point

Applying pressure to GB 10 helps relieve neck aches and tension and stimulates the body’s hormonal function.

Position of GB 10

Place one thumb below your skull and one thumb’s distance from the spine to locate the spot.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Use your thumb on the same side of the arm to apply mild and prolonged pressure to the spot
• You can apply pressure to the point throughout the day, especially at night, for up to three minutes

3. TE3 Acupressure Point

The following acupressure point for back pain in the hands can also help relieve neck, shoulder, and headache pain.

Position of TE3

The Acupoint is in the cleft between the groove formed by the tendons connecting your fourth and fifth fingers behind the knuckles.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Place your thumb from the opposite hand on the spot
• Apply firm pressure with the tip of the thumb into the groove
• Hold it for up to five seconds at a time
• You can do this several times throughout the day to relieve upper body tension

4. LI 4 Acupressure Point

Massaging the LI 4 acupoint eases upper back pain, facial tension, toothaches, and neck stiffness. Therefore, after a long day at work and feeling stressed, applying pressure can help reduce stress.

Location of LI 4

You find the pressure point on the web between your thumb and index finger. Bring your two fingers together to find the spot, then bring the thumb and index finger into contact. A bump is found in the muscle, and LI 4 is at the highest point of the bulge.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Use your other hand and grasp the spot with your thumb and index finger
• Apply up to 10 seconds of pressure and relax or massage the region for up to five seconds
• You can repeat the method up to three times for relief

5. K 27 Acupressure Point

The acupressure point for back pain in the hand is crucial for releasing tension in the throat, upper back, and chest. It will help you to relax and breathe deeply.

Location of K 27

Place one fingertip on either side of your collarbone to locate the spot.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Use your opposite hand and press firmly on the point for a few seconds
• Alternatively, you can rub the area while applying pressure
• Hold it for two minutes and breathe deep and slow
• You can repeat the technique up to five times a day

6. GV 14 Acupressure Point

Pressure on GV 14 helps relieve stiffness in the shoulder and neck. It is a practical acupressure point for cervical spondylosis.

Location of GV 14

You find the Acupoint at the midline of your upper back.

How to Apply Pressure:

• You need to apply pressure to the spot in a seated position for a minute
• Here, you will need to ask another person to help
• Furthermore, your threshold of pain and comfort helps limit the pressure

7. SI 15 Acupressure Point

Using the SI 15 points is effective in easing neck and back pain associated with cervical spondylosis. It also helps alleviate tension and stress.

Location of SI 15

SI 15  is located two finger widths away from your spine in the middle of the shoulder area.

How to Apply Pressure:

• The acupressure points are unreachable, so you will need to ask someone to help
• While sitting, the person needs to apply pressure with their thumb or use the knuckles on the spot
• Applying pressure depends on your pain threshold when holding for up to two minutes

Acupressure Points for Pain in the Lower Back:

Here are the acupoints for treating hip and lower back pain.

1. CV 6 Acupressure Point

You find the Sea of Energy point in the stomach, which you use to treat lower back pain. Furthermore, it helps to strengthen the muscles in your lower body between the hip and the waist.

Location of CV 6

Hold three fingers, using the index, middle, and ring fingers together, and place them under the belly button. There is a firm region you can feel using your ring finger.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Keep your three fingers together and hold them on the spot firmly
• Hold a steady pressure for about one minute
• Repeat the method up to three times within a ten-minute interval
• If you suffer from a weak stomach or gastric trouble, use the base of your palm to apply gentle pressure

2. B23 Acupressure Point

The Kidney Shu is an acupressure point that treats lower back pain and stimulates muscle tension. It is best to ask someone to help apply pressure to the spot.

Location of B23

You find the Acupoint between the Acupoint and the rib cage in the middle region. To locate it, you see it where the inner bladder line meets the middle of your waist.

How to Apply Pressure:

• It helps if you lie face down for the person to find the spot and apply pressure for a minute
• While applying pressure, you need to take deep breaths and exhale to increase the force on the place
• Once you reach your pain threshold, stop and repeat for another minute

3. B47 (B52) Acupressure Point

Adjacent to B23 is the B47 acupressure point, which is used for pain relief in the lower back. You will also need the help of another person to apply pressure to the spot.

Location of B47 (B52)

You find the spot on the outer bladed line in the waist’s center on the right border of the erector muscle group.

How to Apply Pressure:

• It would be best if you lay face down, and the person needs to apply steady pressure for about a minute
• While applying pressure, you need to take deep breaths and exhale as the person applies pressure

4. GV4 Acupressure Point

Governing Vessel 4, also known as the Life Gate, is beneficial for alleviating lumbar back pain. It also treats sexual problems in men, fatigue, and weakness in the knees.

Location of GV4                               

The Life Gate acupressure point is located between the vertebrae at your waistline, at the same level as the B23.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Here, you will also need the help of another person to apply pressure
• Lying face down, take deep breaths and exhale as pressure is applied
• The person needs to apply steady pressure for a minute and release

5. B60 Acupressure Point

The Bladder 60 point is found on the leg, and stimulating it relieves lumbar pain. You can also use it to treat headaches, dizziness, and neck pain. However, do not use it if pregnant, as it leads to induced labor.

Location of B60                                

Bladder 60, you find between your (Kunlun Mountains) Achilles tendon and outer anklebone.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Use your thumb on the spot and grip the ankle by applying up to 30 seconds of pressure and release
• Keep alternating between the legs for up to four times in each session

6. LV 3 Acupressure Point

Tai Chone, also known as the Great Rushing Point, is beneficial for stress relief, lower back pain, and limb pain.

Location of LV 3                               

You can easily find it where the bones of your big toe and the next toe meet, about three inches from the tip of your big toe.

How to Apply Pressure:

• With the thumb, apply gentle pressure for 30 seconds and release
• Furthermore, alternate between your legs up to four times per session

7. B54 (B40) Acupressure Point

The Bladder 54 point helps release tension in the lower back and helps control muscle spasms.

Location of B54                                

You find the Middle Crook at the back of your knee in the center of the crease.

How to Apply Pressure:

• Apply pressure using your thumb for up to 30 seconds and repeat for up to 15 minutes

Acupressure Points for Mid-Back Pain Relief  

When you search for middle back acupoints on the internet, you often find references to lower or upper back points. Luckily, we are here to help with the following acupoints. It is helpful to use one or more of these acupressure points with your free hand.

UB20 Acupressure Point

Pi Shu is useful for more than mid-back pain. It also helps alleviate symptoms of vomiting, indigestion, abdominal bloating, and other related issues.

Location of UB20                             

Pi Shu, you find in the middle of the back three finger widths lateral to your spine on the eleventh thoracic vertebra

How to Apply Pressure:

• Here, you will need the help of another person to apply pressure with the thumb to both points
• Apply gentle pressure for up to two minutes at a time while you are lying face down
• Make sure to take deep breaths and slowly exhale

Acupressure Points on the Palm for Back Pain:

While the acupressure points for back pain chart mentions the above acupoints, there is another spot on the palm that can be used to treat back pain.

The Hand Valley point is between your first finger and thumb. Applying firm pressure to the spot helps reduce stress and relieve migraines, while also alleviating back pain. Furthermore, it helps ease tension in the neck, shoulders, and teeth.

Acupressure Points for Back Pain During Pregnancy:

As you progress during your pregnancy, your baby adds more weight to your back and legs. Whether you suffer from upper back pain or lower back pain, acupressure can help alleviate the discomfort.

By applying up to two minutes of pressure to the following point, you can find relief:

• For the first Acupoint, you locate the Acupoint web section between your big and 2^nd toe
• The second acupressure point is below the kneecap and is found by placing four finger widths below it—the spots on the outer side of your leg.

Using any of the acupressure points for back pain is safe, and it has no side effects. However, we recommend using the medication prescribed in conjunction with acupressure simultaneously.

Furthermore, if you have risk factors related to blood clots, it is best to consult your doctor first before receiving an acupressure treatment or massage.

As you can see, many pressure points are found throughout the body. You can apply pressure to most of these points, although some may require assistance from a loved one or a licensed practitioner.

On the other hand, acupressure therapy helps relieve different pains but is not used to treat illnesses. It is unique because it can be used to treat headaches, nausea, back pain, and more without grabbing a painkiller first.

So go ahead and try it. You have nothing to lose!

Conclusion:

Using these acupressure points for back pain properly and working them with care can help relieve natural pain caused throughout your day. These provide quick results when applied daily. If you cannot do it, consider calling on a friend or visiting a qualified Acupressure Therapist to achieve the best results.