Stomach pain can sometimes strike unexpectedly, appearing without warning. If you're experiencing severe stomach pain but don't have the right medication nearby, that discomfort is truly unpleasant to endure. That's why we should learn a few quick methods to relieve stomach pain, helping to ease its intensity. So, what methods can quickly alleviate mild discomfort?
What methods can quickly relieve mild pain?
1. Acupressure
Abdominal Massage: Cross your hands, with the right hand on top for men and the left hand on top for women. Using the navel as the center, massage the abdomen in a Tai Chi pattern—36 circles clockwise and 36 circles counterclockwise. This method can relieve pain, reduce bloating, and improve appetite.
Pressing Zusanli: The Zusanli point is located three cun (equivalent to the width of four fingers placed side by side) below the lateral edge of the knee, between the tibia and fibula. Use the tips of both thumbs to press this point. Perform 36 times during normal periods; when pain occurs, massage approximately 200 times with slightly firmer pressure.
Massage Neiguan: The Neiguan point is located at the center of the wrist, approximately three finger-widths (width of three fingers placed side by side) from the wrist crease, between the two tendons. Use your thumb to massage and rotate in a circular motion 36 times, alternating hands. During an attack, increase to 200 times.
2. Mental Victory Method
When stomach pain strikes, stay calm.Endure the pain, sit calmly in a chair, and slowly regulate your breathing. Inhale deeply until you can inhale no more, then exhale slowly. Repeat this for 10 to 20 minutes until the pain subsides or stops.
3. Exercise Therapy
Kneeling Forward Bend
Kneel on the ground with both knees touching the floor, knees aligned with toes. Keep your upper body upright with arms hanging naturally.Slowly lower yourself until your weight rests entirely on your ankles, with hands resting naturally on your knees. Maintain normal breathing. Hold this position for about 30 seconds, then relax and lean your upper body forward. Repeat 3 to 5 times. This exercise helps relieve bloating and gastrointestinal symptoms (such as cramps or diarrhea) while strengthening thigh muscles.
Standing Knee Bend
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, hands lightly resting on knees, and body slightly bent forward. Take a deep breath. As you exhale, slowly contract your abdominal muscles to create a slight indentation in your stomach. Avoid straining excessively, as this may cause discomfort. Hold this position for 5–20 seconds without holding your breath. Then, naturally exhale all air from your lungs and relax your muscles.Repeat 4–7 times. This exercise is highly effective for relieving indigestion and constipation.
Push-Up Position
Lie prone (face down on a bed or floor) with your body fully relaxed. Your forehead should touch the ground, legs straight, and arms bent with elbows close to your body, palms facing down at shoulder width. Using your arms for support, lift your head and chest while keeping your legs on the ground until you feel your chest and abdomen fully expand.Hold this position for about 10 seconds. Repeat 3–5 times. This helps eliminate gas, relieve constipation, strengthen back muscles, and provides some assistance in spinal alignment.
4. Relax the Abdomen
When experiencing stomach pain, loosen your belt to ensure smooth flow of stomach qi and provide abdominal comfort. Individuals prone to frequent stomachaches should wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid abdominal pressure.
5. Eat Something
Many people develop stomach pain due to an imbalance of eating too little while working excessively hard.If your stomachache stems from hunger, it's best to eat something promptly to fill your stomach. Opt for soft foods like bread or porridge. Avoid hard foods or excessive milk during an episode, as soft foods are highly effective in relieving discomfort. If you don't have time for breakfast before work, keep some snacks in your desk drawer to eat during breaks, which can prevent stomach pain.
6. Apply warmth
Those with cold stomachs often experience flare-ups after consuming chilled foods. Drinking warm water or applying a hot water bottle to the stomach area can provide noticeable relief.
Stomach pain is a common symptom that's often overlooked. In reality, it can stem from numerous conditions, some quite serious; many cases of stomach pain have progressed to stomach cancer. It's crucial to seek treatment at a reputable hospital and avoid self-medication.