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Acupressure Point LI4
Pregnancy warning. LI4 (Hegu) is one of the points traditionally avoided during pregnancy, because firm stimulation here is classically used to promote labor. Do not press this point if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, unless a licensed acupuncturist or your midwife directs it (for example at term). Everyone else: use gentle, comfortable pressure.
Name: Hoku
Chinese Name: 合 谷
Location: At the highest spot of the muscle on the back of the hand that protrudes when the thumb and index finger are brought close together. Midway between the thumb and index finger approximately one body inch above the web.
Traditionally used for: Relieves pain and inflammation in the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, neck. Headache, red eye, pain in the eye, nose bleed, toothache, sore throat, facial swelling, fever, abdominal pain, constipation, delayed menstrual cycles, absence of menstruation in fertile women without pregnancy, PMS, delayed labor, to balance the energy in the body, first locate of the acupressure points that you need to work on for your specific needs. Apply firm pressure is the most fundamental technique. Use thumbs, fingers, palms, the side of the hand, or knuckles to apply steady, stationary pressure to the point for 1-2 minutes.
Use firm but comfortable pressure. It should never be painful. Press gently if you bruise easily, take blood thinners, or have varicose veins or broken skin. The more developed the muscles are, the more pressure you should apply. If you feel extreme sensitivity or pain, gradually decrease the pressure until you find a balance between pain and pleasure. Do not continue to press a point that is excruciatingly painful.
Caution: 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.
