Originating from China, acupressure is a combination of acupuncture and pressure. By applying pressure to the points used in acupuncture many symptoms of discomfort are relieved of pain. This pressure application is done with the use of the hands, the elbows, or other equipment.
The body has an energy current that travels inside the body along an invisible path, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles. These pathways are known as meridians that interconnect your organs with other body parts. The pressure that is applied to your body during acupressure lie on those meridians. It is believed that the blockage of these meridians is what causes your ailments.
It is thought that when this pressure is applied to the points in question on the body’s natural pain relievers, endorphins are released thereby relieving the pain.
The noted discomfort of the patient is relieved when pressure is applied due to increased blood circulation to the area. It relaxes the muscles as well. This technique is known to balance the body, relieve pain symptoms, and increase overall good health. By reducing the tension, along with its other effects, acupressure helps to promote good health and make the body less 
vulnerable to disease. Acupressure can be done by someone else, but you can also practice acupressure on yourself. Different points in the body, when pressed on, will offer an energy healing capability.
In acupressure the fingertips and the knuckles are frequently used. When the exact pain location is found after careful probing, pressure is applied to the area for 15 to 30 seconds. The reverse point of this area should be found on the other half of the body and again pressure applied for 15 to 30 seconds. If you find this brings about more pain, do not further probe this area. Only relief should be felt after applying the pressure.
Acupressure is by no means a substitute for medical care. You should always seek your physician’s advice before pursuing any type of alternative treatment such as this.
Acupressure has been known to be successful in a variety of ailments, which include nausea, menstrual cramping, headache, muscle tension, fatigue, vomiting, pain, and motion sickness, as well as other discomforting symptoms.
At no time should you experience any pain during an acupressure treatment. If there is any pain noted the treatment should be stopped immediately. You will also want to see your physician regarding this. The side effects of acupressure are minimal. There may be some slight discomfort where the pressure points were applied, but this should be only a slight sore feeling. In some instances a minor and short-lived lightheadedness may be felt.
Resources:
Balance Flow Health and Bodyworks: What is Acupressure
http://www.balanceflow.com/BAacupressure.htm
Acupressure
http://www.acupressure.com/
Dr Weil: Wellness Therapies
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03230/Acupressure.html
Earth Touch: What is Shiatsu? What is Accupressure?
http://www.earthtouchshiatsu.com/whatis.php
Acupressure Institute
http://www.acupressureinstitute.com/
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