Acupuncture vs. Acupressure

Pierce or Push?

Both acupuncture and acupressure are recognized forms of holistic medicine. Although acupressure is believed to be the older of the two, both have been practiced for over 2000 years.

Both procedures are rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, although as practiced in the US, they both show the influence of Korean, Japanese, and other Asian cultures.

Differences between acupuncture and acupressure

The philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine asserts that illness is caused by blockages of chi (energy) along one or more of fourteen meridians. Both acupressure and acupuncture are based on advancing the flow of chi along these pathways by stimulating specific pressure points.

Both procedures are used to treat allergies, arthritis, depression, nausea, migraine headaches, menstrual cramps, and anxiety. In fact, acupressure is also called "needle less acupuncture."

Acupuncture needles are very long, ultra-thin, flexible lengths of surgical grade stainless steel that a trained practitioner delicately inserts beneath the skin, into muscle and tissue. When properly done, the procedure shouldn’t cause any more discomfort than pulling a single hair from your head.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that qualified practitioners use only sterile, nontoxic needles, which are disposable and labeled for single use. Although about 40 states have established training standards for acupuncture certification, training and certification requirements vary from state to state.

Results from scientific studies are inconclusive, yet both acupuncture and acupressure are recognized as effective holistic healing tools. Still, acute, life-threatening conditions are best handled by Western medical practitioners.

Your practitioner should have a thorough understanding of the limitations of the procedures and be prepared to refer you to a traditional healthcare provider when conditions extend beyond either his or her experience or the limitations of the treatment.

Your First Appointment

Your first acu-treatment may take up to an hour. Although you may have given your day spa your medical history, before applying either acupressure or acupuncture, your practitioner should conduct a short physical exam, taking into account your appearance, your build, and your pulse among other factors.

You should also advise your therapist of any medical conditions you have (including pregnancy) and/or prescription drugs you are taking.