In recent years, acupressure has gained attention as a complementary treatment for anxiety, particularly among individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupressure involves applying firm pressure to specific points on the body to promote healing and restore balance. As interest in non-pharmaceutical approaches to mental health continues to grow, acupressure has become a focal point of research for its potential to alleviate anxiety in oncology patients.
Cancer treatments can be a profoundly stressful experience, often involving rigorous and invasive procedures such as chemotherapy and radiation, alongside the inherent uncertainty surrounding the disease’s progression. Acupressure, similar to acupuncture, stimulates energy pathways (meridians) to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, tension, restlessness, and sleep disturbances.
Key findings from recent studies include:
Reduced Anxiety: Participants reported feeling a greater sense of calm and emotional stability following several acupressure sessions.
Improved Quality of Life: Participants also noted improvements in their overall well-being.
Enhanced Accessibility: Acupressure can be performed at home or even virtually with professional guidance, making it an easily accessible therapy.
Anxiety is a prevalent psychological symptom experienced by cancer patients, and finding effective, accessible, and safe treatment options is crucial. Acupressure offers a non-invasive, low-cost, and readily learnable technique that can be used alongside other treatments to help alleviate anxiety and improve the overall quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
If you are interested in learning more about acupressure and how it might benefit you personally, please contact us at 301-880-3232 and it would be our pleasure to schedule a consultation for you.
References:
Alhusamiah B, Almomani J, Al Omari A, et al. The Effectiveness of P6 and Auricular Acupressure as a Complimentary Therapy in Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Among Patients With Cancer: Systematic Review. Integr Cancer Ther. 2024;23:15347354241239110. doi:10.1177/15347354241239110
Beikmoradi A, Najafi F, Roshanaei G, Pour Esmaeil Z, Khatibian M, Ahmadi A. Acupressure and anxiety in cancer patients. Iran Red Crescent Med J. 2015;17(3):e25919. Published 2015 Mar 31. doi:10.5812/ircmj.25919
Lin J, Chen T, He J, Chung RC, Ma H, Tsang H. Impacts of acupressure treatment on depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Psychiatry. 2022;12(1):169-186. Published 2022 Jan 19. doi:10.5498/wjp.v12.i1.169
Yang E, Lu W, Tanasijevic AM, Ligibel JA. Virtual acupressure for symptom management in cancer populations during COVID-19: a retrospective analysis. Support Care Cancer. 2023;31(5):300. Published 2023 Apr 25. doi:10.1007/s00520-023-07766-8