The old saying "Toothache isn't a disease, but when it strikes, it's truly agonizing" highlights how profoundly tooth pain can affect one's life. The Hegu acupoint is a key point for treating toothache. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that "facial and oral ailments respond to Hegu," meaning conditions related to the face and mouth can be addressed using this acupoint.The Hegu point is located between the first and second metacarpal bones of the hand. To locate it, place the transverse crease of one thumb's interphalangeal joint on the web of the thumb and index finger of the other hand. The point is directly beneath the thumb's tip.To alleviate toothache, apply steady pressure or knead the Hegu point for 3–5 minutes. Maintain even, firm pressure until a sensation of soreness and fullness develops locally, radiating to surrounding areas or the upper limb. Alternatively, use a commercially available moxa stick. Light it and hold it 2–3 cm above the skin, gently warming the Hegu point until the local skin reddens.This method provides relief for toothaches caused by various dental conditions such as cavities, gingivitis, and pericoronitis. However, for persistent toothaches or those with unknown causes, even if symptoms subside, prompt medical consultation is essential for further diagnosis and treatment.
Zusanli for Gastric Disorders
Traditional Chinese medicine states that "the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired constitution," meaning proper digestion and absorption of nutrients from food depend on the normal functioning of these organs.In modern society, high work pressure and frequent social engagements often lead to irregular lifestyles and eating habits. Consuming raw, cold fruits, unclean foods, or overeating can easily cause gastric disorders, prolong existing illnesses, or trigger frequent relapses.
Zusanli (ST36) is an effective acupoint for preventing and treating stomach ailments. It is located 3 cun below the lower edge of the patella (patients can measure this by placing their index, middle, ring, and little fingers together; the transverse crease at the middle phalanx of the middle finger serves as the reference point, with the width of these four fingers equaling 3 cun; same applies below) and one thumb-width lateral to the anterior tibial crest (measured by the width of the patient's thumb knuckle).(see Figure 2). Apply pressure with the thumb, knead, or moxibustion with a moxa stick for 3–5 minutes per session, several times daily. A localized sensation of soreness and distension radiating outward should be achieved during manipulation. When using moxibustion, take care to avoid skin burns.Traditional Chinese medicine likens the health benefits of moxibustion at Zusanli to eating a whole old hen daily, highlighting its extraordinary efficacy. It effectively alleviates symptoms such as pain, belching, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite caused by gastric disorders like acute/chronic gastritis and gastric ulcers.
Sanyinjiao for Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea troubles many young women, manifesting as lower abdominal pain during menstruation or around the menstrual period, sometimes radiating to the lower back and sacrum, making it unbearable. Long-term use of painkillers can lead to dependency and often intensifies the pain.The Sanyinjiao acupoint is located 3 cun above the highest point of the inner ankle, on the posterior border of the medial aspect of the tibia. To effectively prevent and treat dysmenorrhea, apply pressure or moxibustion to this point using the thumb or heel of the palm for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily, starting three days before the expected onset of menstruation and continuing until the third day of the period.Apply continuous, even pressure during acupressure, and maintain moderate heat during moxibustion. Optimal results occur when a localized sensation of soreness and distension radiates up the inner thigh, persisting for 1–2 minutes after treatment cessation. For irregular menstrual cycles, apply this method three days before the expected period to alleviate pain.
Temple Pressure for Headaches
Headaches are common symptoms of various acute and chronic conditions. For headaches caused by hypertension, infectious febrile illnesses, or ENT disorders, treating the underlying condition is key. Neurological headaches, often triggered or worsened by fatigue, stress, or mental strain, can be relieved by pressing or massaging the temples.The temples are located in the indentation approximately one cun (the width of the patient's thumb knuckle) behind the outer corner of the eyebrow and the outer eye corner. Apply pressure for 3–5 minutes each session. Use moderate force, aiming for a sensation of soreness and fullness radiating toward the eye area without causing intolerable pain. This method has pain-relieving and invigorating effects, and can also alleviate headaches caused by insufficient sleep or eye strain.
Having learned the remarkable benefits of these pressure points, patients may wish to try self-application to alleviate discomfort with a single point.