According to Traditional Chinese Medicine and few Alternative Medicine, there are few pressure points that are said to aid in providing comfort during constipation and promote bowel frequency. However, the effectiveness of this pressure point method is limited due to minimum scientific evidence. If you experience severe or chronic constipation, it is advice to consult your healthcare professional for the diagnosis and treatment. Here is the few pressure point which provide the comfort during constipation.
Acupressure Point: Stomach 36 (ST 36 or Zusanli):
The very common acupressure point to relieve constipation is stomach 36 or ST 36 or Zusanli. This acupressure point is said to stimulate digestion to overcome digestive discomfort. The point is located on the lower leg, about four finger width below the kneecap and one finger width to the outside of the shinbone.
To stimulate this point:
- Sit or lie down comfortably.
- Apply gentle, firm pressure with your thumb or index finger to ST 36 on both legs simultaneously.
- Use a circular motion and apply steady pressure for about 2-3 minutes.
- Take slow, deep breaths while doing this.
Abdominal Self-Massage:
Gentle abdominal self-massage can also help stimulate the digestive system and relieve constipation discomfort. Here’s how to do it:
- Lie down on your back with your knees bent.
- Place your hands on your abdomen, just below your ribcage.
- Use gentle, circular motions with your fingertips, moving in a clockwise direction. Imagine you’re tracing the path of your colon.
- Continue massaging for about 2-3 minutes while taking deep, relaxing breaths.
Important Considerations:
- Be gentle: When applying pressure to these points or massaging your abdomen, use gentle but firm pressure. You should not experience pain. If you do, stop immediately.
- Consult a healthcare provider: If you have chronic or severe constipation, consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Constipation can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires medical attention.
- Lifestyle factors: Pressure points and self-massage can complement lifestyle changes like dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and adequate hydration. These are essential for long-term constipation prevention.
It is important to note that there is no replacement of proper medical evaluation and treatment, the pressure point and self-message just offer temporary relief. Always consult your healthcare professionals for severe problems.
