Summary: 5 acupoints — Weizhong, Shenshu, Yaoyangguan, Kunlun, and Dachangshu — for quick self-acupressure relief when your back is aching.
Your Back Is Aching — It Feels Like Life Has Stopped
You bend over to wash your face and ‘ugh!’ — there it is. After sitting for a while and trying to stand, your back is so stiff you can’t move for a moment. The dull, persistent ache in your lower back is truly miserable.
When your back hurts, walking, sitting, and even lying down feel uncomfortable. Sharp pain can shoot from your buttocks down to your thighs, and twisting sensations can make even breathing difficult. “Is this a disc problem?” Worry floods in.
Don’t worry. Just knowing 5 acupoints you can press with your hands right now, you can quickly relieve that aching back. No medicine, no tools — you can do this anywhere.
1. Weizhong (BL40) — The Special Point for Back Pain
Where Is It?
At the exact center of the crease behind your knee (the fold when you bend it). You can feel a pulse when you press gently.
How to Press
- Sit in a chair, place one leg over the opposite knee
- Press the center behind the knee firmly with both thumbs
- Press 5 seconds, release 3 seconds, repeat 10 times
Why does it work? Weizhong is the go-to point for back pain in traditional medicine, with the saying “For low back pain, seek Weizhong.” The Bladder meridian runs along the back, making this point especially effective.
2. Shenshu (BL23) — Directly Loosens Both Sides of the Back
Where Is It?
At navel height on the back, about two finger-widths (3cm) to each side of the spine center.
How to Press
- Place both hands on your lower back with thumbs on each side of the spine
- Press in circular motions with your thumbs
- 30 seconds of pressure, 5 seconds rest, repeat 3 sets
Why does it work? Shenshu connects to the kidneys, relieving chronic back fatigue and heaviness.
3. Yaoyangguan (GV3) — The Central Spine Relief Point
Where Is It?
Between lumbar vertebrae 4 and 5, at the center of the spine. It’s where the line connecting the highest points of the pelvis (iliac crest) meets the spine.
How to Press
- Make a fist and use the second knuckle to press the area
- Rub gently up and down for 30 seconds
- Lying on a tennis ball placed under this spot also works well
4. Kunlun (BL60) — Release Back Pain from the Ankle
Where Is It?
In the hollow between the outer ankle bone and the Achilles tendon.
How to Press
- Pinch from both sides with your thumb and index finger
- Press 3-5 seconds, repeat 10 times on each foot
Why does it work? As the source point of the Bladder meridian, it releases the pain line running from the back through the legs. Commonly used for sciatica.
5. Dachangshu (BL25) — Cares for Lower Abdomen & Back Together
Where Is It?
At the level of lumbar vertebra 4, two finger-widths to each side of the spine. Located slightly below Shenshu.
How to Press
- Place both thumbs on Dachangshu, wrap remaining fingers around your waist
- Press with body weight for 5 seconds, repeat 8 times
Quick Comparison!
| Acupoint | Location | Best For | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weizhong BL40 | Behind the knee | Acute back pain relief | Easy |
| Shenshu BL23 | Both sides of spine | Chronic fatigue, weakness | Easy |
| Yaoyangguan GV3 | Center of spine | Direct lumbar relaxation | Medium |
| Kunlun BL60 | Behind outer ankle | Sciatica relief | Easy |
| Dachangshu BL25 | Both sides of L4 | Lower abdomen + back care | Easy |
5-Point Combination Routine
Short on time? Just Weizhong + Shenshu are effective. If you have more time, work from bottom to top: Weizhong, Kunlun, Dachangshu, Shenshu, Yaoyangguan. Total time: about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times a day should I do back acupressure?
2-3 times daily, 3-5 minutes each is ideal. Morning after waking and before bed are the most effective times.
Weizhong is hard to reach alone — any tips?
Sit in a chair with knees bent, then press the center behind your knee with both thumbs for easy access.
Should I apply heat or do acupressure first?
Warm the muscles with heat therapy first, then do acupressure for double the effect. Try 10 min heat then 5 min acupressure.
Can I stretch and do acupressure together?
Yes, combining them creates synergy. Do light stretching to loosen up first, then follow with acupressure.
What if acupressure makes the pain worse?
Stop immediately if pain increases. You may have pressed too hard. Start with gentle stroking massage instead.
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