acupressure tool

Acupressure as a therapy was developed over 5,000 years ago, and it is an important aspect of Chinese medicine. Acupressure uses precise finger placements and pressure over specific points along the body. Such points follow specific channels, also known as meridians. These are the same channels used in acupuncture.

According to Chinese medical philosophy, the activation of these points with pressure (or needles) improves blood flow, releases tension, and enhances or unblocks life-energy. This life energy is known in China as “qi” and is often referred to as “chi” in the West. When released, this energy flows through the meridians promoting relaxation, healing and restoring proper function.

What makes a good Acupressure Tool?

In a word, specificity.  We don’t all have the strength necessary to maintain adequate pressure on meridian points, especially when working on multiple. Your fingers just get tired. That is why it is important to have the right tool.  You want an acupressure tool that will fit comfortably in your hand and allows for easy soft tissue manipulation.  You also want an acupressure tool that allows for a very precise application of pressure.  The Knuckleball™ is exactly that. 

Knuckleball™Acupressure

The edged tip of each knuckle allows for a very direct, yet precise, application of pressure.  The differing heights allow for greater control over depth of penetration.  The Knuckleball™ allows you to relax into the treatment rather than focusing on your aching fingers.  See the Knuckleball™ being used for Acupressure below.

What conditions respond to Acupressure? 

Acupressure therapy relieves pain, reduces tension in muscles and fascia, improves circulation, and promotes deep states of relaxation. Massage therapists and other body workers typically provide acupressure treatments, but you can learn to do it for yourself.

Individuals trained in the self-application of acupressure often use it to address: nausea and vomiting, motion sickness, headaches, neck and back pain. It also works as a balm for chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, mental and emotional stress, even addiction recovery and learning disorders. A massage tool, such as the Knuckleball™, can be helpful in the specific application of pressure to acupressure points.

The Chinese also use acupressure points as a beauty treatment to enhance muscle tone and increase circulation, especially of facial muscles. This reportedly improves the condition and appearance of the skin, lessening wrinkles and sagging of the face without drugs or surgery. Most of the evidence for such uses is anecdotal and clinical trials are needed to confirm this.