Acupressure Points for Joint Comfort

Here are the acupressure points traditionally used for joint comfort. Working on these points can help you get better quicker. You do not have to use all of these points. Using just one or two of them whenever you have a free hand can be effective.

Points (A) — Crooked Pond
Location: On the upper edge of the elbow crease. Traditionally used for: Relieves arthritic pain, especially in the elbow and shoulder.

Points (B) — Outer Gate
Location: Two and one-half finger widths above the wrist crease on the outer forearm midway between the two bones of the arm. Traditionally used for: Relieves rheumatism, tendonitis, wrist pain, shoulder pain.

Points (C) — Joining the Valley
Caution: This point is forbidden for pregnant women until labor because its stimulation can cause premature contractions in the uterus.
Location: In the webbing between the thumb and index finger at the highest spot of the muscle when the thumb and index finger are brought close together.
Traditionally used for: Relieves pain and inflammation in the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, neck.

Points (D) — Three Mile Point
Location: Four finger widths below the kneecap, one finger width to the outside of the leg. Traditionally used for: Strengthens the body, benefits the joints, relieves the fatigue that often results from the drain of dealing with arthritic pain.

Points (E) — Gates of Consciousness
Location: Below the base of the skull, in the hollow between the two large, vertical neck muscles, two to three inches apart depending on the size of the head.
Traditionally used for: Relieves arthritis, as well as the following common complaints that often accompany arthritic pain: headaches, insomnia, stiff neck, neck pain, fatigue, general irritability.

Caution: If you have a serious illness, or life-threatening illness such as heart disease, or cancer, please consult with your physician before practicing Acupressure.

Acupressure is self-care, not a replacement for diagnosis or treatment. Stop if you feel sharp pain, numbness or dizziness. Pregnant or trying to conceive? Skip LI4, SP6, GB21, BL60 and BL67 unless your practitioner directs it. Get medical care first for chest pain, sudden weakness, fainting, heavy bleeding, or a high fever.