Acupoint Guide

Tag: eye pain

  • SI3 Acupoint — Essential Point on the Small Intestine Meridian, Precise Location and Effects

    Hougyae (SI3) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Location, Pressure Technique, and Effects

    One-line summary: Hougyae (SI3) is an acupoint on the outer side of the pinky finger, belonging to the Small Intestine meridian, and is excellent for relieving neck and lower back pain, headaches, and tinnitus. Applying pressure 2-3 times daily can produce noticeable effects within 3-7 days.

    What is Hougyae (SI3)? — Key Acupoint of the Small Intestine Meridian

    Hougyae (SI3) is an acupoint belonging to the Small Intestine meridian. The Small Intestine meridian begins at the pinky finger, travels through the arm and shoulder, passes through the neck, and extends to the face and ear. It is widely used in Oriental medicine for treating pain in the neck, head, and ear regions.

    Hougyae is the most easily accessible and highly effective acupoint on this meridian, and has been an important acupoint in Oriental medicine for thousands of years.

    Hougyae Acupoint Location — Finding it Precisely

    Hougyae is located on the outer side of the pinky finger, in the small depression immediately behind the joint where the finger meets the hand.

    Finding Hougyae in 4 Steps

    1. Rest your hand comfortably. Keep your fingers naturally extended.
    2. Identify the outer side of your pinky finger (the side facing the back of your hand). This is the lateral side of the pinky when your palm faces upward.
    3. Locate the joint where the pinky finger meets the hand. In medical terms, this is the 5th metacarpophalangeal joint (where the pinky bone meets the hand bone).
    4. The depression immediately behind that joint is Hougyae. When you press with the tip of your thumb, you’ll feel it sink slightly into a small hollow.

    Easiest Way to Confirm

    Notice the crease that forms at the base of your pinky when you make a light fist? The point where that crease meets the 5th metacarpophalangeal joint is exactly Hougyae. Using this crease as a reference makes it easy to locate even the first time.

    Category Characteristics Finding Tips
    Location Outer side of pinky finger (back of hand side) When holding your hand with the back facing upward, the outer side of the pinky
    Depth A small depression 1-2mm deep from the surface The point will give slightly when pressed with your finger
    Size About the size of a sesame seed The precise point is just a single point at your thumb tip

    Hougyae Pressure Technique — Proper Method and Intensity

    The foundation of Hougyae acupressure is “gentle stimulation that produces mild discomfort.” Pressing too hard reduces effectiveness and can damage the skin.

    5-Step Pressure Application Method

    1. Adopt a comfortable position. Either sit or stand with one hand extended and relaxed.
    2. Place your opposite thumb perpendicular to Hougyae. Alternatively, you can use the edge of a coin.
    3. Apply pressure gradually. The intensity should produce mild dull discomfort or pressure sensation (pain level 5-6/10).
    4. Press for 10 seconds, then release. This completes one set.
    5. Repeat this 5-10 times. Begin with 5 repetitions, and gradually increase to 10 as you adapt.

    Pressure Intensity and Frequency Guide

    Item Recommendation Description
    Pressure intensity Mild discomfort level (5-6/10) Comfortable yet firm pressure sensation. Reduce intensity if pain is sharp
    Duration per session 10 seconds × 5-10 repetitions = 2-3 minutes total Time required for one complete session
    Frequency per day 2-3 times Essential: right after waking and before bedtime. One additional session possible if symptoms are severe
    Time for effects to appear 3-7 days (varies by individual) Noticeable results possible within one week with consistent practice

    Cross-Meridian Pressure Technique — More Effective Method

    This involves applying pressure to Hougyae on the opposite side from where pain occurs. Example: neck pain on the left side → apply pressure to right-side Hougyae. According to meridian theory, this method is often more effective, especially for chronic pain relief.

    Effects of Hougyae Pressure — What Symptoms Does It Help?

    Hougyae is effective for relieving pain in all areas through which the Small Intestine meridian travels. It is particularly excellent for symptoms in the neck, head, ear, and shoulder regions.

    Five Main Effects

    Symptom Effect Time to Effect
    Neck pain Relieves stiff neck muscles and provides rapid pain relief. The Small Intestine meridian passes directly through the neck Immediately after pressure to within hours
    Headache Relieves tension headaches and migraines. Particularly effective for headaches caused by lower neck pain Within 10-30 minutes
    Tinnitus (ringing ears) Since the Small Intestine meridian passes through the ears, it improves ear health. Helpful for chronic tinnitus relief 1-2 weeks with consistent practice
    Eye fatigue and eye pain Improves blood circulation around the eyes and promotes eye fatigue recovery. Effective after prolonged work Immediately after pressure to within 1 hour
    Arm and shoulder pain Since the Small Intestine meridian travels through the arm and shoulder, it relieves pain. Helpful for sports injury recovery 3-5 days with consistent practice

    Additional Effects

    • Relieves shoulder tension and muscle knots
    • Improves wrist pain and elbow pain
    • Stress relief through nervous system relaxation
    • Improved overall body function and enhanced immune system

    Acupoint Combinations to Maximize Effects

    While Hougyae pressure alone is effective, combining it with other acupoints yields even better results. Stimulating additional acupoints matched to your symptoms amplifies the meridian stimulation effect.

    Primary Symptom Complementary Acupoints Reason for Enhanced Effect
    Neck pain Fengchi (GV16), Dazhui (GV14) Promotes blood circulation in the neck and head region
    Headache Taiyang (EX-HN5), Hegu (LI4) Improves head blood circulation and relieves pain
    Tinnitus Tinghui (SI1 area), Fengchi (GV16) Enhances meridian stimulation in the ear region
    Eye fatigue Taiyang (EX-HN5), Jingming (BL1) Promotes blood circulation around the eyes

    Optimal Timing for Hougyae Pressure — When is it Most Effective?

    Consistent pressure at set times morning and evening is most effective. Acupressure timed with your body’s natural rhythm produces superior results.

    Optimal Times of Day for Pressure Application

    Time of Day Physiological Effect Characteristics
    Morning (right after waking) Activates metabolism and boosts energy for the day Increased serotonin production clears the mind and improves focus
    Afternoon (when symptoms are severe) Immediate relief of acute pain and responsive intervention Can be added as needed; maximizes the critical window
    Evening (before bed) Promotes daily fatigue recovery and induces sound sleep Reduces stress hormones and prepares for restful sleep

    Optimal Pressure Timing by Symptom

    • Neck stiffness: During work breaks or immediately after stretching (pressure effect is enhanced on flowing blood)
    • Acute headache: Apply pressure immediately at symptom onset (early intervention is most effective)
    • Eye fatigue: 2-3 minutes of pressure every 2 hours of screen work (prevents accumulative fatigue)
    • Tinnitus (ringing ears): Regular application 3 times daily (consistent stimulation at morning, noon, and evening)
    • Shoulder tension: Brief stimulation throughout the workday (around 10am, 3pm, 5pm for short sessions)

    Seasonal Importance of Acupressure

    More consistent acupressure is needed during seasonal transitions and cold winter months. Weather changes slow blood circulation.

    • Spring/Fall (seasonal transitions): Regular pressure 4-5 times weekly to enhance body’s adaptive capacity
    • Winter: Daily pressure to promote blood circulation (especially essential right after waking)
    • Summer: 2-3 times as needed (avoid excessive pressure)

    Hougyae Pressure Precautions — Applying Pressure Safely

    While Hougyae acupressure is a safe self-care method, observing certain precautions ensures maximum effectiveness and safety.

    Cases to Avoid Pressure Application (Contraindications)

    Situation Reason Alternative
    When hand has wounds, inflammation, or infection Risk of infection spread, possible wound worsening Begin 3-5 days after wound completely heals
    During pregnancy (especially early pregnancy) Concern about uterine contractions (Hougyae is relatively safe but requires caution) Consult an Oriental medicine practitioner before applying only gentle stimulation
    When having blood clotting-related conditions Requires pressure intensity adjustment and medical monitoring Consultation with healthcare provider is essential
    Immediately after severe injury or fracture Possible pain worsening and increased swelling After medical treatment and minimum 2-week recovery period

    Four Essential Principles When Applying Pressure

    1. No excessive intensity: If pain increases or discomfort persists, immediately reduce pressure intensity. Over-stimulation can worsen symptoms.
    2. Avoid prolonged stimulation of the same area: Applying pressure for more than 20 minutes continuously can damage skin. A proper session should be 2-3 minutes.
    3. Observe daily maximum frequency: Applying pressure more than 3 times daily is not recommended. Decide after consulting with an Oriental medicine practitioner if needed.
    4. Listen to your body’s signals: If discomfort develops or new pain appears, stop immediately and consult a professional. Forcing self-care is not advisable.

    No Results from Hougyae Pressure?

    If you experience no improvement or worsening symptoms, there may be another underlying cause. It is important to consult a professional at the appropriate time.

    • Symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks: Medical consultation is essential. Rule out other causes such as cervical disc herniation, cervical spine disease, or neuralgia
    • Sudden symptom worsening: Stop pressure until consulting a professional. Possible nervous system issues or inflammation aggravation
    • Serious impact on daily life: Immediately consult a healthcare provider. Self-care has limitations
    • If diagnosed with a specific condition: Consult with an Oriental medicine practitioner before deciding on pressure application. Treatment may need to be combined with other therapies
    Pregnant women caution: While Hougyae is relatively safe during pregnancy, acupoints such as Hegu (LI4), Sanyinjiao (SP6), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with an Oriental medicine practitioner or obstetric specialist before applying pressure.
    Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for health information purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If you have persistent pain or serious symptoms, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.

    Next Steps — Maximizing Effects with Related Acupoints

    If you’ve experienced good results from Hougyae pressure, combining it with other acupoints can be even more effective. Refer to related acupoint information matched to your symptoms and begin comprehensive self-care.

    • — Learn effective acupoint combinations with Hougyae in the 5 Essential Acupoints for Neck Pain Relief guide
    • — Comprehensively address everything from tension headaches to migraines in the Complete Headache Relief Acupoint Guide
    • — Understand all acupoints of the Small Intestine Meridian and harness the full benefits of the meridian to which Hougyae belongs
    • — Choose the treatment method best for your symptoms in Comparing Self-Acupressure vs Acupuncture, Moxibustion, and Tuina

  • Chengqi (ST1) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-Line Summary: ST1 is an acupoint located below the eye that is excellent at quickly relieving eye fatigue and discomfort.

    What is ST1?

    ST1 is an acupoint belonging to the Stomach meridian in traditional Chinese medicine. This point is located in the hollow area below the eye and receives the energy of the eyes and face. It is highly effective for relieving eye fatigue and facial pain, which are common issues for modern people.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step-by-Step: First, locate the center of your pupil with your index finger. Move down approximately 1cm from there to find the hollow area at the edge of the bone (lower orbital rim). That is ST1. It is located on both eyes. When you apply pressure and feel a slight neurological response (a tingling sensation or mild pain), you have found the correct location.

    How to Apply Acupressure

    Step 1: Touch your face with clean hands. Use your index or middle finger to locate ST1.
    Step 2: Place your finger on the acupoint and slowly press in a perpendicular direction. Do not press too hard; gentle pressure with a warm, slightly tender sensation is ideal.
    Step 3: Maintain the pressure for 3-5 seconds, then slowly release your finger.
    Step 4: Repeat this action 5-10 times per eye.
    Step 5: After stimulating both eyes, close your eyes and rest.

    Key Benefits

    • Eye Fatigue Relief: Quickly improves eye strain from prolonged screen time.
    • Eliminates Eye Pain and Foreign Body Sensation: Quickly relieves eye pain and the sensation of something in the eye.
    • Regulates Excessive Tear Production: Normalizes excessive tearing from irritation.
    • Facial Pain and Trigeminal Neuralgia Relief: Effectively relieves nerve-related pain around the eyes and face.
    • Supports Vision Improvement: Maintains eye health through regular acupressure.

    When is the Best Time to Apply Acupressure?

    ST1 acupressure can be performed anytime, but certain times are particularly effective. 9am to 11am is when the Stomach meridian’s energy is most active, making acupressure especially effective during this time. You can also apply pressure whenever your eyes feel fatigued during work, or in the evening to wind down for the day. It’s particularly helpful to apply acupressure after using a smartphone or computer, or after removing glasses or contact lenses, as eye fatigue will recover quickly.

    Precautions

    Remember these important precautions when applying ST1 acupressure. First, the skin around the eyes is very thin and sensitive, so never press too hard. It’s important to apply moderate pressure with a warm sensation. Second, pressing with fingernails or rough hands can damage the skin, so always touch gently with your fingertips. Third, if you have an eye infection or inflammation, or if it’s shortly after surgery, consult a professional before applying acupressure. Fourth, excessive stimulation can have adverse effects, so apply acupressure about 3-4 times per day. Finally, if symptoms are severe or persistent, be sure to consult an ophthalmologist or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints, such as SP6, LI4, and LR3, may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or possibly pregnant, be sure to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints for Eye Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    5 Acupoints for Eye Pain — Complete Self-Acupressure Guide

    One-Line Summary: Eye pain and eye strain can be quickly relieved by stimulating the Houxi (SI3) point on the pinky finger, Zanzhu (BL2) inside the eyebrow, Taiyang (EX-HN5) at the temple, Yangxi (LI5) at the wrist, and Bingao (LI14) on the upper arm.

    Introduction

    As digital device usage increases, more and more people are suffering from eye pain. Whether it’s from wearing glasses or contacts for extended periods or staring at screens, most of us have experienced that uncomfortable, achy feeling in our eyes. Rather than relying on medication, you can achieve remarkable results simply by stimulating acupressure points on your body. We’ll teach you five acupressure points from traditional Chinese medicine that help relieve eye pain, and show you how to manage it yourself with self-acupressure techniques.

    Five Effective Acupressure Points for Eye Pain

    1. Houxi — SI3

    Location: Located on the outer side of the pinky finger, at the junction of red and white skin on the crease at the base of the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint. It’s right below the crease that forms when you bend your pinky finger.

    Benefits: Houxi is a major point on the Small Intestine meridian and is closely connected to the eyes. It quickly relieves eye fatigue and pain, and is particularly effective when eyes feel heavy or vision becomes blurry. It can also improve migraines and neck stiffness at the same time.

    Technique: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press the Houxi point firmly, then release. Repeat about 10 times, holding each press for 3–5 seconds, with enough pressure to feel slight discomfort. Stimulate it at least twice daily, morning and evening, for best results.

    2. Zanzhu — BL2

    Location: Located at the inner end of the eyebrow (toward the bridge of the nose), in the depression above the eye socket. Following the indentation where the eyebrow meets the eye bone and moving inward, you’ll find a distinct tender point.

    Benefits: Zanzhu is an important point on the Bladder meridian that promotes blood circulation around the eyes, relieving eye pain, eye fatigue, and dry eyes. It also helps improve rhinitis, headaches, and facial swelling.

    Technique: Use the thumbs of both hands to press Zanzhu simultaneously. Press at approximately a 30-degree angle upward toward the eyebrow, holding each press for 5 seconds and repeating about 10 times. Since the eye area is sensitive, apply moderate pressure.

    3. Taiyang — EX-HN5

    Location: Located in the soft indentation about 1 cun (roughly one thumb-width) behind the midpoint between the outer end of the eyebrow and the outer corner of the eye, toward the temple. You’ll feel a distinct tender point when pressing on the temple.

    Benefits: Taiyang is an extra point (not part of the eight extraordinary meridians) and is the most effective acupressure point for relieving eye pain and eye fatigue. It quickly improves tension headaches, migraines, and eye redness, and is also effective for relieving facial neuralgia.

    Technique: Using the middle and ring fingers of both hands, gently press the temples while making small circular motions. Perform about 10 slow circular massages, repeating 3–4 times daily. It’s beneficial to rest your eyes for about 5 minutes after pressing this point.

    4. Yangxi — LI5

    Location: On the back of the wrist above the wrist crease, in the indentation between the extensor pollicis longus tendon (the tendon that appears when you extend your thumb) and the extensor pollicis brevis tendon (the tendon that appears when you spread your thumb sideways). When you bend your wrist backward, the depression between these two tendons becomes clearly visible.

    Benefits: Yangxi is a major point on the Large Intestine meridian that promotes qi and blood circulation in the face and around the eyes. It relieves not only eye pain but also puffiness around the eyes, dry eyes, and eye redness. It can also address facial swelling and skin problems.

    Technique: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press Yangxi firmly, then release. Repeat about 15 times, holding each press for 3 seconds, maintaining a slightly uncomfortable pressure. Alternate between both hands, stimulating once in the morning and once in the evening.

    5. Bingao — LI14

    Location: Located on the upper arm at the point where the deltoid muscle attaches, approximately 7 cun (about 5.5 cm or the width of about five fingers) from the outer end of the elbow crease toward the shoulder, in a soft indentation.

    Benefits: Bingao is an important point on the Large Intestine meridian that promotes qi and blood circulation throughout the body and specifically improves the flow of qi to the upper body and head. Beyond relieving eye pain and fatigue, it also treats high blood pressure, shoulder stiffness, and arm numbness.

    Technique: Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press Bingao firmly, then release. Stimulate about 10 times, holding each press for 5 seconds, applying as much pressure as you can tolerate. Alternate between both arms, and pressing in the evening helps speed recovery from eye fatigue that night.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Even with a busy schedule, you can relieve eye pain in just 5 minutes. Do this routine right after waking up in the morning or during work breaks.

    ① Houxi Point Massage (1 minute): Stimulate the Houxi point on both pinkies alternately with your thumb, pressing about 10 times each side.

    ② Zanzhu Point Massage (1 minute): Press both Zanzhu points simultaneously with your thumbs, releasing and repeating about 10 times.

    ③ Taiyang Massage (1 minute): Using your middle and ring fingers, massage both temples with circular motions about 10 times.

    ④ Yangxi Point Massage (1 minute): Stimulate the Yangxi point on both wrists alternately with your thumb, pressing about 10 times each side.

    ⑤ Bingao Point Massage (1 minute): Press the Bingao point on both upper arms alternately with your thumb, pressing firmly about 10 times each side.

    Repeating this 5-minute routine twice daily (morning and evening) will significantly improve eye pain and fatigue.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupressure points such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, be sure to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing these techniques.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.
  • Yangxi (LI5) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    Yangxi (LI5) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line summary: Yang Xi (LI5) is an acupoint on the back of the wrist that relieves various symptoms including wrist pain, headaches, toothaches, and eye pain, making it a versatile acupoint.

    What is Yang Xi?

    Yang Xi (陽谿) is the fifth acupoint of the Large Intestine meridian, located on the back of the wrist. In traditional Chinese medicine, Yang Xi is understood as a “valley where qi and blood converge,” and it is considered an important acupoint that controls heat and pain throughout the body. It is particularly known for its rapid effects in improving various symptoms of the upper body.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step 1: Extend your wrist backward to comfortably show the back of your wrist.
    Step 2: Identify the upper part where the horizontal wrist crease appears.
    Step 3: You will see two tendons—the hollow depression between the thumb-side tendon (extensor pollicis longus tendon) and the adjacent tendon (extensor pollicis brevis tendon) is Yang Xi.
    Step 4: When you gently palpate, the area that feels tender is the exact location. It is generally located slightly toward the thumb side from the center of the wrist.

    Acupressure Method

    Preparation: Sit in a comfortable position and rest your hands comfortably.
    Step 1: Locate the Yang Xi point using the thumb of your opposite hand.
    Step 2: Slowly inhale and apply firm pressure over 3–5 seconds. Apply enough pressure to feel slight discomfort.
    Step 3: Slowly release your finger as you exhale.
    Step 4: Repeat this process 5–10 times.
    Tip: Alternating between both wrists will yield better results.

    Main Effects

    • Wrist pain relief: Yang Xi relaxes the muscles around the wrist and improves blood circulation, effectively alleviating wrist pain and stiffness.
    • Headache improvement: Since the Large Intestine meridian connects to the neck and head, Yang Xi acupressure quickly improves tension headaches, migraines, and occipital pain.
    • Toothache relief: Due to its close relationship with the large intestine, it is effective in relieving dental pain, gingivitis, and lip swelling and other oral symptoms.
    • Eye fatigue relief: It improves eye pain, eye fatigue, and dry eyes, and is effective for eye strain from prolonged computer work.
    • Heat-related symptom improvement: It addresses heat-related symptoms such as facial heat sensation, nosebleed, and oral inflammation.
    • Stress relief: It stabilizes the autonomic nervous system and helps relieve stress and anxiety.

    When to Practice Acupressure

    Optimal time: It is effective to practice acupressure in the morning when you wake up and need to loosen up your stiffened body, at work when you feel fatigued, and in the evening when you want to relieve daily stress. You can expect immediate relief, especially when experiencing headaches or toothaches.
    Optimal frequency: 1–3 times per day, about 5–10 times per session is appropriate. If pain is severe, you can do it more frequently as needed, but be careful not to stimulate the same area for too long.

    Precautions

    Cases to avoid: Pregnant women should consult with a healthcare professional before proceeding due to the possibility of abdominal tension. If there are wounds or inflammation on the wrist, avoid acupressure, and if there is a fracture or serious illness, always follow your doctor’s instructions.
    During acupressure: Avoid excessive stimulation and maintain appropriate pressure. Be aware that the skin may turn red or bruise after acupressure, so adjust the intensity accordingly. If there is acute pain or swelling, consult a specialist. Rinsing your wrist with warm water after acupressure is even better.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before practicing.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for the purpose of providing health information and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional.
  • LI3 (Third Interval) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    LI3 (Third Interval) Acupoint — Complete Guide to Precise Location and Acupressure Technique

    One-line Summary: LI3 is an acupoint located behind the second metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger, and is a versatile acupoint that quickly relieves toothache, sore throat, and eye pain.

    What is LI3?

    LI3 (Three Intervals) is an acupoint belonging to the Large Intestine meridian, located in the second metacarpophalangeal joint area of the finger. This acupoint is known to effectively relieve pain in the face and neck area, and is an important acupoint that has been used for a long time in traditional Chinese medicine. In particular, it is characterized by a quick response to acute pain, serving a role similar to first aid.

    How to Find the Exact Location

    Step 1: Extend your hand comfortably and look at your index finger.
    Step 2: Find the second joint (second metacarpophalangeal joint) of your index finger. This is the area where wrinkles form when you bend and straighten your finger.
    Step 3: Press the indented area (hollow section) on the thumb side (radial side, toward the thumb) of that wrinkle.
    Step 4: When you find the correct location, you should feel slight pain or a refreshing sensation.

    Acupressure Method

    Basic Acupressure Technique:
    1. Prepare by sitting or lying down in a comfortable position.
    2. Use the side of your thumb nail or an acupressure tool.
    3. Apply slight pressure perpendicular to the LI3 acupoint.
    4. Press for 3-5 seconds, then slowly release the pressure.
    5. Repeat this 10 times.
    Tips to Enhance Effectiveness: It is more effective to perform acupressure while breathing deeply. It is fine to apply acupressure frequently when pain is severe.

    Key Benefits

    • Relief from Toothache: Effective for both acute and chronic toothache, and is frequently used as first aid before treatment.
    • Relief from Sore Throat: Quickly relieves pain and discomfort caused by throat inflammation.
    • Improvement of Eye Pain: Reduces eye fatigue, red eyes, eye pain, and relieves vision fatigue.
    • Relief from Headache: Particularly helpful for migraines and tension headaches.
    • Reduction of Facial Swelling: May help reduce facial puffiness.

    When is it Good to Apply Acupressure?

    Optimal Time: There are no specific time restrictions, and you can apply acupressure whenever you feel pain. However, it is best to avoid applying it within 1 hour after eating or when extremely tired.
    Recommended in These Situations: While waiting for treatment, sudden toothache, sore throat, eye fatigue from prolonged screen work, and when experiencing headaches due to stress.

    Precautions

    Contraindications: Pregnant women should avoid LI3 acupressure. Excessive pressure or prolonged acupressure can cause skin damage, so maintain appropriate intensity.
    Guidance: If persistent pain continues for 3 days or longer or worsens, be sure to consult a healthcare professional. Acupoint acupressure is a complementary therapy and cannot completely replace disease treatment.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Certain acupoints such as SP6, LI4, and LR3 can trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a traditional medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before applying acupressure.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for the purpose of providing health information and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.
  • 5 Acupoints That Help Relieve Cough and Eye Pain Simultaneously

    5 Acupoints That Help Relieve Cough and Eye Pain Simultaneously

    One-line summary: When cough and eye pain occur simultaneously, it is effective to press in order the acupoints Dachu, Quanzhong, Lieque, Fenglong, and Chize, which strengthen lung function and promote qi and blood circulation.

    Introduction

    Have you ever experienced a persistent cough while simultaneously feeling soreness and pain around your eyes? This is not mere coincidence. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, reduced lung function is understood to lead not only to respiratory symptoms but also to poor qi and blood circulation around the eyes. In this article, we introduce five verified acupoints that can address both cough and eye pain simultaneously.

    Five Acupoints for Cough and Eye Pain

    1. Dachu — GV14

    Location: Located in the depression directly below the most prominent bone when bending the neck forward (the 7th cervical vertebra). You can find it by taking the midline of the spine as reference at the boundary line between the neck and shoulders.

    Effects: Dachu is an acupoint that strengthens overall immune function, enhancing lung function and improving respiratory symptoms. Simultaneously, it promotes blood circulation from the crown to the face, alleviating eye fatigue and pain.

    Acupressure technique: Using the tip of your thumb, press Dachu perpendicularly with strong pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this 5 times, breathing slowly to ensure the muscles at the back of the neck do not become tense.

    2. Quanzhong — CV17

    Location: Located at the midpoint when connecting both nipples with an imaginary line. It is the 4th intercostal space above the sternum (the bone in the center of the chest). You can find it by slowly pressing the center of the chest with the index and middle fingers to locate the depression.

    Effects: Quanzhong is a key acupoint that directly regulates the qi of the lungs. It alleviates cough, deepens breathing, and relieves chest tightness. It also promotes smooth qi and blood circulation, improving blood supply around the eyes.

    Acupressure technique: Using your fingers or finger joints, gently massage Quanzhong in circular motions. Perform about 10-15 clockwise rotations at a time, proceeding within a range that causes no pain.

    3. Lieque — LU7

    Location: Located approximately 1.5 cun (thumb width) above the inner wrist crease, on the radial styloid process (the prominent bone on the thumb side of the wrist). It is the depression directly above the radial artery when the wrist is slightly bent.

    Effects: Lieque is an important acupoint of the Lung meridian, and is excellent for directly treating cough. It relieves sore throat, headache, and tension around the eyes, while strengthening immunity to prevent respiratory infections.

    Acupressure technique: Using the opposite thumb, locate Lieque and press firmly for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this 5-7 times on each wrist. Massaging the wrist with warm water after acupressure is even more effective.

    4. Fenglong — ST40

    Location: Located on the lateral side below the knee. Starting from above the outer knee and descending along the tibia (shinbone) approximately 8 cun (width of five fingers), positioned about 2 cun (width of two fingers) to the lateral side of the tibia. You can find it in the depression between the muscle and bone on the outer calf.

    Effects: Fenglong is an acupoint that eliminates phlegm and promotes qi and blood circulation. It removes sputum caused by cough and improves eye fatigue by promoting overall qi circulation throughout the body. It also strengthens digestive function to support overall recovery of physical strength.

    Acupressure technique: With the knee slightly bent, locate Fenglong with your thumb and press vertically with strong pressure for 5 seconds. You may feel some pain, but proceed within the range of acceptable discomfort, taking care not to press too deeply. Repeat 5-7 times on each leg.

    5. Chize — LU5

    Location: Located above the elbow crease formed when bending the elbow, on the lateral side of the biceps tendon (the prominent tendon on the inner arm). It is positioned approximately one thumb width toward the thumb from the inner elbow crease when the arm is bent.

    Effects: Chize is very effective at clearing Lung heat and stopping cough. It reduces throat swelling, eases breathing, and clears heat around the eyes to alleviate eye pain and bloodshot eyes.

    Acupressure technique: Using the thumb of the opposite hand, locate Chize and press firmly for 3 seconds, then release. Repeat 5-7 times on each arm. Gently massaging the entire arm with warm water after acupressure speeds up absorption.

    5-Minute Self-Care Routine

    Step-by-step acupressure order:

    1. Dachu (GV14) → Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders while boosting overall immune function. (1 minute)

    2. Quanzhong (CV17) → Directly regulates Lung qi to alleviate cough. (1 minute)

    3. Chize (LU5) → Clears Lung heat to ease breathing and reduce eye redness. (1 minute)

    4. Lieque (LU7) → Strengthens immunity and relieves tension around the throat and eyes. (1 minute)

    5. Fenglong (ST40) → Removes phlegm and promotes overall qi circulation. (1 minute)

    Recommendations: This routine is best performed 1-2 times daily, especially when cough is severe or before bedtime in the evening. Drinking warm water after acupressure and resting for 30 minutes maximizes effectiveness.

    🤰 Pregnancy Warning: Some acupoints such as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Hegu (LI4), and Taichong (LR3) may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to consult with a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner or healthcare professional before proceeding.
    ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist or are severe, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.