Acupressure treatment is a Traditional Chinese Medicine practice which is similar to acupuncture, only instead of needles it uses manual pressure. It is based on the belief that the body possesses several individual channels known as "meridians" which energy or "Qi" flows through. Each of these pathways is associated with a specific organ which can be affected by stimulating points along these meridians.

Many studies demonstrate the efficacy of this technique in its ability to encourage healing and ease pain. It is considered to be a holistic method as physically it reduces muscle tension and increases circulation, and psychologically it brings about relaxation and renewed energy.

The body's meridians start in the head and run down to the heels, and connect the inner organs to the outside of the body. Traditional Chinese Medicine has identified over 800 pressure points throughout the body. Western medicine as a rule does not acknowledge the presence of these points, however it has noted that they are supposedly located at major autonomic junctions.

Acupressure is applied by means of the practitioner's hands, elbows, feet, or special tools made for this use including the energy roller, acuball, and foot roller. The patient will usually stay for one hour-long session at a time, but will ultimately require several in order to experience the best results. Drinking warm water after is recommended as this helps eliminate toxins.

The goal of this therapy is to restore the body's balance of yin and yang energy (positive and negative) forces. Even though there is an ever-growing body of evidence which supports the efficacy of it as a curative and analgesic technique, Western medicine continues for the most part to attribute these findings to the release of endorphins and such rather than accrediting it to the practice of acupressure therapy.

It is also effective as a preventative approach which can curb certain types of pain and imbalance before they can escalate into a full-blown condition. People can even learn how to perform some basic acupressure techniques on their own which may be used to relieve issues like headaches, neck pain, arthritis, back and muscle aches, eyestrain, and sinus problems. It also promotes relaxation and relieves stress which can ultimately improve one's immunity and encourage healing.

Pressure applied to the wrist has been proven through several studies to treat and prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and motion sickness, there are special wristbands on the market that patients can wear to continually apply pressure in order to achieve this effect. Additional research supports claims that this method helps various types of pain, headaches, and arthritis as it stimulates endorphin production and has an anti-inflammatory effect. It also seems to improve mood and energy levels which helps patients suffering from depression and anxiety.

In most instances acupressure treatment is safe, however patients who have cancer, a spinal injury, rheumatoid arthritis, or varicose veins must discuss it with their doctor before undergoing therapy of this kind because in some cases it may not be recommended. Pregnant women should also avoid its use since it can bring on contractions in some cases. One must always ensure that the practitioner performing the procedure is licensed and certified as well.