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In a world where the prevalence of diabetes is on the rise, individuals are increasingly seeking holistic approaches to manage this chronic condition. Amidst various alternative therapies, acupressure emerges as a compelling and natural method that holds promise for diabetes control. This ancient practice, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, is gaining attention for its potential to complement conventional treatments. Join us on a journey to unravel the techniques of acupressure. Discover how acupressure benefits and risks may play an essential role in maintaining your blood sugar levels. Harnessing this magical therapy can help you enhance your overall well-being, which will help you navigate the challenges of diabetes.
What is Acupressure?
Acupressure is a traditional healing therapy or technique that involves applying pressure to particular pressure points on our body to stimulate and enhance energy flow, known as “Qi” (pronounced ‘Chee’). Derived from traditional Chinese medicine, acupressure is believed to influence the body’s vital energy pathways, promoting balance and aiding in the relief of various ailments. By using fingers, palms, or special tools, practitioners target specific acupoints, aiming to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. This non-invasive practice is often utilized as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments.
Acupressure and Diabetes
Generally, in our body, when the blood sugar level rises, the body produces insulin hormone. This hormone helps sugar move out from the bloodstream into the cells and tissues. Cells store and use the sugar accordingly. However, in the case of diabetes, either there is no insulin production or a lessening of insulin sensitivity. Just like providing its benefits for many other ailments, acupressure for diabetes control is also effective.
There are specific acu points for diabetes patients which help use the body’s energy and ability to fasten recovery. However, you must know that there is still no cure for any kind of diabetes. The acupressure points for sugar patients can only help them with diabetes management and can not cure it.
Read More: 10 Best Glucometers in India
Acupressure Points for Sugar Patients
In the healing technique of acupressure, acupressure points for sugar control focus on an alternative medication treatment which focuses on “qi”. “Qi” believes there is a pathway in our body through which the vital energy of life flows. Acupressure points for sugar patients emphasize putting pressure on sugar control acupressure points. Pressing these acupressure points for diabetes type 2 patients will enhance the flow of “qi.”
Doing these mudras will enhance mood and ensure smooth energy movement, which will help in diabetes management. According to a study published in 2021 in the National Library of Medicine depicts the beneficiary effects of sugar acupressure points. The 60 subjects who were given acupressure displayed significant differences in glycosylated haemoglobin or HbA1c.
In the same study, researcher Maryam Salmani Mood said acupressure points for diabetes on hand also reduce stress and, thus, help in stress management. Moreover, a medical trial conducted by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials regards acupressure alternative medicine for diabetics. Sugar control acupressure points help in slightly reducing fasting blood sugar. The trial also established that acupressure points help in enhancing insulin levels for type 2 diabetics.
Read More: Insulin Resistance Diet: What to Eat & What to Avoid
Top 7 Acupressure Points for Sugar Patients
The following are the acupressure points for high blood sugar management:
There are a total of two ACU points for diabetes patients in your hand, which are as follows:
1. Wrist Point
The wrist acupoint is scientifically named Pericardium 6. It is near your pinky or little finger on your inner forearm. Pressing this point stimulates the ‘qi’ that helps regulate blood sugar. Pressing the wrist point enhances insulin sensitivity and also improves the heart’s functioning. The acupressure finger ring benefits are also gained through this point.
2. Palm Point
The palm point of acupressure for diabetes patients helps ease digestive disorders and regulates sugar levels. This point is between the index finger and thumb. Pressing this point for around 5 minutes will significantly improve the above conditions. Both wrist and palm acu points for diabetes patients help in improving digestion and ensure good gut health.
3. Foot Acupressure Points for Sugar Patients
Foot acupoints for sugar control also go by the name of liver point. The benefits of foot acupressure not only help with diabetes but also lessen high blood pressure, insomnia, lover disorders and stress. The location of the foot acupoint is in between the first two toes on both legs. Pressing this point anticlockwise daily is proven to help in maintaining blood sugar levels.
4. Toe Point
The toe acupressure points for diabetic patients are located precisely under both your toes. Pressing these points gently stimulates vital organs and helps with blood sugar management. Pressing the toe points also enhances blood circulation and metabolism. A diabetes patient must necessarily consider the toe points for diabetes control as this point is more effective in blood sugar regulation than others.
5. Knee Point
In the list of diabetes acupressure points for sugar patients now comes the knee point. The location of this point is just 2 cm below your kneecap along the edge of the leg shinbone. The knee point has the magical ability to improve digestive health. This point also helps with blood sugar management along with managing joint pain and heartburn. Moreover, acupressure massage benefits the knee point and also boosts your energy level. It also helps with stress management and anxiety.
6. Calf Point
The calf point is next. This point is situated at the backside of your knee above your calf muscle. Pressing these points helps in lessening anxiety and stress. Pressing these points improves blood flow, benefiting diabetes patients. Moreover, you can do an acupressure massage for pain relief on this point.
7. Stomach Point
The last of the acupressure points for sugar patients is the stomach point. This point is located on the inner side of the thighs. Given this point, acupressure massage benefits diabetes patients as this point stimulates the removal of toxins. Doing acupressure massage of the stomach point will bring in more energy and make you feel fit.
Read More: Role of Insulin and How Insulin Works to Maintain Blood Glucose Levels
Benefits of Acupressure for Diabetes Patients
Acupressure for diabetes patients has several benefits. However, apart from diabetes benefits, there are other 9 – 10 benefits of acupressure. Some of the acupressure benefits for diabetes patients are as follows:
- Improves blood circulation and flow
- Helps in stress management, which is necessary for diabetes patients
- Helps fight depression
- Stimulates body healing and metabolism
- Improves gut health
- Helps with headaches and muscle cramps
- Helps with pain relief
Read More: What is Glycemic Index And To Calculate?
Side Effects of Acupressure
Acupressure points for sugar patients, in general, have no side effects if done correctly. However, some rare side effects may arise, which are as follows:
- Light dizziness
- Indentions from acupressure tools
- Tiredness
- Swelling
- Irritation
- Redness around a particular pressure point/points
Read More: Know The Prediabetes Range Before and After Eating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, acupressure emerges as a promising complementary approach for managing diabetes. By understanding the intricate connection between acupressure and diabetes, individuals can incorporate specific techniques into their daily routines. The seven acupressure points highlighted in this blog provide a starting point for those seeking natural interventions. While the benefits include improved blood circulation, stress reduction, and potential glucose and HbA1c level regulation, it’s essential to approach acupressure with caution. Consulting with your diabetologist is crucial, as acupressure may have varying effects on individuals. As with any therapeutic method, potential side effects should be considered, and users should be attentive to their body’s responses. Embracing a holistic approach that combines acupressure with traditional medical advice can contribute to a more comprehensive diabetes management plan.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Question)
To regulate diabetes, there are a total of 7 acu points for diabetes patients. These points will help you in diabetes management.
Wrist point
Palm point
Stomach point
Feet point
Knee point
Calf point
Toe point
Yes, pressure point massages like acupressure have been proven to lower blood sugar in diabetics. Studies published in the National Library of Medicine have also shown acupressure helps in reducing HbA1c and stress levels in diabetes patients.
No, acupressure for diabetes patients isn’t a cure. Through acupressure, one can only manage or regulate sugar levels.
Disclaimer
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