Why Asthma and Finger Pain Appear Together
The simultaneous occurrence of asthma and finger pain is not a coincidence. In traditional Chinese medicine, deficient lung qi is seen as the common underlying cause of both symptoms.
The lungs control not only breathing but also blood circulation to the arms and hands. When lung function weakens, breathing difficulties (asthma) develop, and at the same time, the fingers fail to receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, resulting in numbness, coldness, and pain. Therefore, by stimulating acupoints that strengthen lung function, you can improve both symptoms simultaneously.
5 Effective Acupoints for Asthma and Finger Pain
| Acupoint Name (Code) | Primary Benefits | Location | Pressure Repetitions/Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dachu (GV14) | Replenish lung yang qi, strengthen respiratory function | Below the 7th cervical vertebra at the back of the neck | 10 times, 1 minute |
| Tanzhong (CV17) | Immediate breathing relief | Center of the chest, at the midpoint between the nipples | Breathing rhythm, 5 minutes |
| Chize (LU5) | Relieve finger neuropathy and numbness | Inner forearm, above the elbow crease | 15 times, 1 minute |
| Jiefen (ST12) | Promote upper body circulation | In the hollow depression above the clavicle | 5 times, 1 minute |
| Zhiyang (GV9) | Promote whole-body qi circulation, strengthen respiratory resistance | Back of spine below the 7th thoracic vertebra | Heat therapy pack, 10 minutes |
1. Dachu (GV14) — The Acupoint That Most Powerfully Replenishes Lung Yang Qi
Key Effect: Strengthens weakened breathing function in asthma patients and boosts immunity to reduce attack frequency. Lung qi expands to reach the fingertips, simultaneously improving coldness in the extremities and finger pain.
Precise Location: Slowly lower your head forward. The most prominent bone at the back of your neck is the 7th cervical vertebra. Directly below it in the small hollow depression is Dachu. When you press with your finger, you can clearly feel the deep, indented area.
Pressure Method:
- Sit in a chair with your back supported, tilting your head slightly forward.
- Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press Dachu vertically.
- Maintain strong pressure for 5 seconds, then completely release for 2 seconds.
- Repeat 10 times (approximately 1 minute total).
- The effect is better when using warm hands for the massage.
Timeline for Results: With regular daily practice, you should notice easier breathing after about 1 week. Asthma attack frequency will noticeably decrease after 2-3 weeks.
2. Tanzhong (CV17) — Emergency Acupoint for Immediate Asthma Relief
Key Effect: As the center of the respiratory system, this quickly relieves chest tightness and breathing difficulty in asthma patients. It activates upper body qi and blood circulation, improving numb and painful sensations in the arms and hands.
Precise Location: On the centerline of the chest, at the horizontal line connecting the midpoints of both nipples. This is between the 4th ribs (4th intercostal space). Gently pressing with your finger on the chest will help you locate the hollow area.
Pressure Method:
- Sit in a comfortable position and relax your shoulders.
- Locate Tanzhong on your chest.
- Gently press using your middle and ring fingers overlapped (do not press hard).
- Increase pressure as you inhale, and release pressure as you exhale.
- Continue for 5 minutes (following your breathing rhythm).
Timeline for Results: During acute asthma attacks, breathing becomes easier within 5-10 minutes. For chronic symptoms, noticeable improvement occurs after consistent pressure for 2 weeks or longer.
Precautions: Pressing too hard can cause chest discomfort, so maintain comfortable pressure. It’s best to avoid pressing within 1 hour after eating.
3. Chize (LU5) — The Acupoint That Most Directly Relieves Finger Neuropathy
Key Effect: This acupoint lies along the pathway where lung qi extends to the arms and fingers. It quickly relieves finger neuropathy, numbness, and coldness while simultaneously strengthening lung function.
Precise Location: Extend your arm forward and look at the inside of your elbow. It’s located above the elbow crease, in the small hollow on the outer side of the biceps tendon. It’s about one finger width above the elbow crease.
Pressure Method:
- Extend your arm comfortably forward.
- Use the thumb of your opposite hand to locate Chize.
- Press hard with your thumb for 3 seconds, then completely release for 1 second.
- Repeat 15 times (approximately 1 minute total).
- For faster results, practice 3 times daily (morning, noon, and evening).
Timeline for Results: Finger numbness improves in 1-2 weeks, coldness in 2-4 weeks, and neuropathy in 3-4 weeks.
4. Jiefen (ST12) — The Acupoint That Opens the Gateway to Upper Body Circulation
Key Effect: Promotes blood circulation around the neck and shoulders, improving qi and blood flow to the entire arm. Relieves chest tightness from asthma while simultaneously resolving finger numbness, pain, and coldness.
Precise Location: In the hollow depression above the clavicle (the bone extending from the shoulder blade toward the chest). It’s located about two finger widths outward from the center line of the chest, with one point on each side.
Pressure Method:
- Lower your head slightly forward.
- Use both thumbs to locate the hollow areas above the clavicles.
- Apply pressure to both sides simultaneously, pressing slightly inward (toward the chest).
- Press hard for 10 seconds and rest for 5 seconds.
- Repeat 5 times (approximately 1 minute total).
Timeline for Results: Chest tightness improves after 1 week, and arm numbness and coldness improve after 2 weeks.
5. Zhiyang (GV9) — The Acupoint That Activates Whole-Body Qi Circulation
Key Effect: An important acupoint through which the body’s qi flows, harmoniously regulating lung and heart function. It fundamentally improves asthma symptoms, enhances respiratory resistance, and creates vibrant blood flow to the fingertips.
Precise Location: In the small hollow depression below the 7th thoracic vertebra spinous process (seven vertebrae down from the most prominent bone when your head is lowered forward). When seated or lying down with your back rounded, it’s at the same height as the center of your chest on the back.
Pressure Method:
- Sit or lie in a comfortable position.
- Direct finger pressure on Zhiyang is difficult, so place a tennis ball against your back and massage gently.
- Alternatively, apply a warm heat pack (not too hot) to the Zhiyang area for 10 minutes.
- Practice 1-2 times daily.
Timeline for Results: With heat therapy combined, respiratory resistance improves after 2 weeks, and finger coldness after 3-4 weeks.
Precautions: If your skin is sensitive or inflamed, heat packs are recommended over direct pressure. The temperature of the heat pack should be around 45-50°C (113-122°F).
The Actual Acupoint Sequence for Simultaneously Relieving Asthma and Finger Pain
If you don’t have time to press all 5 acupoints, prioritize based on effectiveness order:
- During acute symptoms (when short of breath): Tanzhong → Dachu → Jiefen (7 minutes total)
- Daily management: Dachu → Chize → Jiefen (3 minutes total)
- Evening routine: Zhiyang heat pack (10 minutes) + Chize pressure (1 minute)
Supplementary Methods to Enhance Effectiveness
Breathing Technique: If you practice deep, slow diaphragmatic breathing while applying pressure, effectiveness increases by 15-20%. Slowly inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, then exhale through your mouth for 6 seconds.
Heat Therapy: Warming the area with warm hands or a heat pack before pressure promotes blood circulation and speeds up results.
Consistency: You’ll experience definite results when practicing daily for at least 1 week, ideally 4 weeks or longer.
Learn More: If you want to relieve asthma symptoms even faster, there’s a method of additionally applying pressure to respiratory-specific acupoints. Check out “7 Acupoints Effective Only for Asthma” for the secrets of strengthening lung function.
Changes Over Time as Results Appear
| Time Period | Asthma Symptom Changes | Finger Pain Changes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 Days | Breathing becomes easier immediately after pressure | Improved sensation in the pressed area |
| 1 Week | Deeper breathing, daily chest tightness reduces | Slight relief of finger numbness |
| 2 Weeks | Reduced attack frequency, nighttime cough decreases | Improved coldness, significant pain relief |
| 4 Weeks | Enhanced respiratory resistance, no shortness of breath during exercise | Finger pain nearly disappears |
If You Also Have Finger Coldness: Finger coldness can be improved even faster with a separate acupoint combination. Learn about additional acupoints you can use alongside Chize in “3 Acupoints for Relieving Finger Coldness”.
When Results May Not Appear
Cases with Limited Effectiveness:
- During severe asthma attacks, pressure alone is insufficient and professional medical help is necessary.
- If finger pain is caused by peripheral neuropathy, broader treatment may be required.
- Irregular pressure (2-3 times per week) makes it difficult to achieve noticeable results.
- The time for effects to appear varies depending on individual constitution.
Recommendation: If symptoms don’t improve even after daily pressure for 4 weeks or more, it’s advisable to consult with a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine for more personalized treatment.
Precautions for Safe Pressure
Times to Avoid: Avoid applying pressure within 1 hour after eating, during extreme fatigue, or when there’s skin inflammation. It’s also not recommended after drinking alcohol or during high fever.
If Discomfort Occurs: If you experience pain, bruising, or increased numbness after applying pressure, stop immediately and consult a medical professional if necessary.
Deeper Information: To learn more about the relationship between the lungs and hands, check out “Lung Meridians and Hand Nerves: The Traditional Chinese Medicine Connection” for the scientific background.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most common mistake when applying pressure?
Pressing too hard. Effective pressure is at the level of “uncomfortable but comfortable.” Many people mistakenly think pain is necessary, but excessive pressure can actually cause tissue damage. Start with light pressure and gradually increase the intensity.
Do I need to pressure all 5 acupoints at once?
No. If time is limited, prioritize based on your symptoms. If severe breathing difficulty is your main concern, start with Tanzhong and Dachu. If finger pain is your primary symptom, start with Chize. Consistency is more important than comprehensive pressure.
How long does the effect of acupressure last?
While individual results vary, acupressure effects typically last 2-4 hours. Therefore, practicing at least once daily, ideally 3 times (morning, noon, and evening), is recommended. Accumulated regular stimulation gradually improves symptoms.
Is it safe to use alongside medication?
Yes, traditional Chinese medicine acupressure can generally be used alongside conventional medication. However, if you’re taking blood thinners or have specific medical conditions, consult with a medical professional first. Acupressure is a complementary therapy, not a replacement for medication.
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