Acupressure Points Used in Acupuncture

Have you ever wondered how a professional acupuncturist knows where they should 
put the needles? If you were to ask a trained practitioner, they would probably tell you 
that the needles are inserted into acupressure points on the body. This is done to 
agitate the point and produce an effect. This article will be sharing a few of the points 
used in acupuncture, and for the purpose of this article, they will be divided into groups 
based on the location.

Chest and Abdomen

Jian Jing - This point is found by using your thumb and middle finger to pinch the 
shoulder muscle, and is most often used for facial pain, stress, headaches, toothaches 
and neck pain. It is not usually recommended that you use this technique on pregnant 
women, because it can start labor contractions prematurely.  

Head, Scalp, and Shoulders

Feng Chi - A technique that has been associated with migraine relief, fatigue, certain 
types of blurry vision, neck pain, and stress. Some have even used this technique to aid 
with cold and flu symptoms. To locate Feng Chi, lock your hands behind your head with 
your thumbs pointed downward. Place both of your thumbs onto the base of your neck 
muscles and run your thumbs upward to the bone behind your ears. You should be able 
follow the groove that is created by the muscle. 

Arms and Hands

He Gu - This position is extremely effective for stress and facial pain. If you want to find 
this point, you will find it on the side of your hand in behind the knuckle, near the place 
where your thumb and index finger meet. Press into the muscle and massage for 4 - 5 
seconds. 

Legs and Feet

Zu San Li - This spot is thought to help major organs like intestines, stomach, and liver. 
It is located on the outside of your lower leg, next to the top of your shin. 

Tai Chong - This is an excellent area to stimulate for stress, low back pain, high blood 
pressure, limb pain, insomnia and emotional upset. To locate this pressure point, use 
your thumb to place pressure in between the tendons that extend to your big toe and 
the second largest toe.

San Yin Jiao - Generally used for pelvic disorders, insomnia, and menstrual cramps and 
can be found on the inside of your leg, just above your ankle. Find the highest point of 
the ankle then four finger widths up your leg, apply deep pressure slightly behind the 
bone.  
