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What Are the Pressure Points to Relieve Stomach Pain?
Here are the 16 best pressure points for stomach aches, according to Dr. Leonor Liz:
- LI-4 (He Gu)
- Liv-3 (Tai Chong)
- Ren-4 (Guan Yuan)
- Ren-6 (Qi Hai)
- Ren-10 (Xia Wan)
- Ren-12 (Zhong Wan)
- SP-4 (Gong Sun)
- SP-13 (Fu She)
- SP-14 (Fu Jie)
- SP-15 (Da Heng)
- ST-25 (Tian Shu)
- ST-21 (Liang Men)
- ST-34 (Liang Qiu)
- ST-44 (Nei Ting)
- ST-45 (Li Dui)
- EM-33 (Luo Zhen)
We’ll show you where they are, how to apply pressure, and when to use each for different stomach problems. So, are you ready to explore this fascinating world of traditional Chinese medicine? Let’s dive in!
Acupressure Points for Stomach Pain Relief
Dr. Leonar Liz has given us some great tips on using acupressure points for stomach aches. She recommends seven key pressure points:
- Ren-12 (Zhong Wan)
- SP-4 (Gong Sun)
- ST-21 (Liang Men)
- ST-34 (Liang Qiu)
- ST-44 (Nei Ting)
- ST-45 (Li Dui)
Acupoint: Ren-12 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-12/Zhong Wan/Middle Epigastrium)
First up, we have Ren-12. This is a point located on your abdomen. Dr. Liz points out that it’s one of the best for helping with stomach issues. It works by balancing your Stomach and Middle Jiao. This can help relieve stomach aches and indigestion. Here’s how to find it
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly above your belly button.
- This point is Ren-12. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: ST-21 (Other Names: Stomach-21/Liang Men/Beam Gate)
Next, let’s talk about ST21. This is another point located on your abdomen. Dr. Liz recommends it because it’s really good at balancing your Stomach and Middle Jiao. To locate ST21:
- Start by finding your belly button.
- Measure three finger widths to the left or right of your belly button.
- Then, go up four finger widths.
- This point is ST21. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: ST-34 (Other Names: Stomach-34/Liang Qiu/Ridge Mound)
Dr. Liz also talks about ST34. This distal point is found on your leg. It’s good at stopping pain. That’s why it’s one of the best pressure points for stomach aches. Here’s how to find it:
- Sit down and bend your knee.
- Look at the front of your thigh.
- Imagine a line from the bony point at the front of your hip (the pointy bit you can feel) to the outer edge of your kneecap.
- Measure three finger widths directly above your kneecap along this imaginary line.
- This point is ST34. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: SP-4 (Other Names: Spleen-4/Gong Sun/Grandfather Grandson)
SP-4 is a foot pressure point for stomach aches that helps remove obstructions from the epigastrium and stops pain. To locate SP4, follow these instructions:
- Start by locating the arch of your foot.
- Move your finger towards your big toe along the arch.
- The point where the arch of your foot begins to curve upwards is SP4.
- Apply gentle pressure with your thumb for about a minute.
Acupoint: ST-44 (Other Names: Stomach-44/Nei Ting/Inner Court)
ST-44 is a foot pressure point commonly used to treat stomach aches. In traditional Chinese medicine, it’s known as a distal point. Distal points are acupressure points far from the middle of your body. They treat problems related to the organ or area they’re connected to. They’re connected through paths in your body that energy flows through. These paths are called meridians..
ST-44 is particularly associated with what’s known as “excess patterns” in the stomach. In traditional Chinese medicine, ‘excess patterns’ is a term used. It means there’s too much of something in your body or a certain organ. This could be certain elements or energies. In the case of the stomach, this could manifest as symptoms like acute stomach pain, a feeling of fullness, or nausea.
By applying pressure to ST44, it’s believed that you can help balance these excess patterns, thereby relieving pain. This is based on the principle that stimulating these points can help restore balance and promote the body’s smooth flow of Qi (energy) and blood.
To locate ST44, follow these instructions:
- Look at the top of your foot and find the webbing between your second and third toes.
- ST44 is located at the base of the webbing between these toes.
- Apply gentle pressure to this point with your thumb.
Acupoint: ST-45 (Other Names: Stomach-45/Li Dui/Running Point)
ST45, like ST44, is a foot pressure point that is commonly used for treating stomach aches. It is also a distal point for excess patterns of the Stomach that relieves pain. To locate ST45:
- Look at the top of your foot and find your second toe.
- The point at the outer corner of the nail bed on the upper side of this toe is where ST45 is located.
- Apply gentle pressure to this point with your thumb.
Acupressure Points for Gas and Bloating
Dr. Leonar Liz recommends four key pressure points for relieving gas and bloating.
- LI-4 (He Gu)
- Ren-6 (Qi Hai)
- Ren-12 (Zhong Wan)
- SP-13 (Fu She)
Acupoint: Ren-12 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-12/Zhong Wan/Middle Epigastrium)
First up is Ren-12, which harmonizes the Earth Element and Middle Jiao. It is an effective pressure point for a bloated stomach. To locate Ren-12, follow these instructions:
- Start by finding your belly button.
- Move your fingers upward until you reach the base of your sternum, which is the bottom part of your ribcage, where it forms a natural “V” shape.
- The point halfway between your belly button and the base of your sternum is Ren-12.
- It is about 4 finger widths above the belly button.
- Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers for about a minute.
Acupoint: Ren-6 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-6/Qi Hai/Sea of Qi)
The next pressure point for stomach gas is Ren-6, which tonifies Qi in the Lower Jiao. To locate Ren-6, follow these instructions:
- Begin by finding your belly button.
- Measure two finger widths directly below your belly button.
- This point is Ren-6.
- Use your index and middle fingers to apply gentle pressure.
Acupoint: SP-13 (Other Names: Spleen-13/Fu She/Abode of the Fu)
Next, we have SP-13, which harmonizes the Spleen and Liver. To locate SP13, follow these instructions:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly below your belly button.
- From this point, move two finger widths to the right or left.
- It is found in the creased area where the legs connect to the rest of the body.
- This point is SP-13.
- Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: LI-4 (Other Names: Large Intestine-4/He Gu/Joining Valley)
Lastly, remember your hands! Dr. Liz points out that LI4 is the best acupressure point on hand for gas and bloating. To locate LI-4, follow these instructions:
- Open your hand and look at the webbing between your thumb and index finger.
- The highest point of the muscle when the thumb and index finger are brought close together is LI4.
- Apply gentle pressure using the thumb of your other hand.
- Remember, acupressure should never cause pain. If it hurts, ease up on the pressure.
Acupressure Points for Nausea and Cramps
We’ve talked to Dr. Leonar Liz about acupressure points for nausea and stomach cramps. These pressure points are useful for different types of stomach problems. They can help if you have a stomach virus like norovirus. They can also help with menstrual cramps or other stomach issues. Here are the points that can give you some relief:
- SP-13 (Fu She)
- Ren-10 (Xia Wan)
- Ren-12 (Zhongwan)
- Liv-3 (Tai Chong)
- LI-4 (Hegu)
- EM-33 (Luo Zhen)
Acupoint: SP-13 (Other Names: Spleen-13/Fu She/Abode of the Fu)
First, Dr. Liz recommends SP13, a point that subdues rebellious Qi. In traditional Chinese medicine, “rebellious Qi” refers to energy moving in the wrong direction. In the case of the stomach, this can cause symptoms like nausea. And this is where pressure points for stomach nausea come in handy. Here’s how to find SP-13:
- Start by standing upright and locating your belly button.
- From your belly button, measure four finger widths directly below. This is a rough estimate, as everyone’s fingers are different sizes, but it should get you to the general area.
- From this point, move two finger widths to the right if you’re looking for SP-13 on your right side or to the left if you’re looking for SP-13 on your left side.
- The point you’re looking for is in the creased area where your leg meets your torso, also known as the inguinal groove.
- This point is SP-13. Use your index and middle fingers to apply gentle, firm pressure to apply acupressure. You can massage in a circular motion or press directly on the point.
Acupoint: Ren-10 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-10/Xia Wan/Lower Epigastrium)
Next is Ren-10, which helps restore the descending of Stomach Qi. It is another useful pressure point for stomach pain and nausea. In traditional Chinese medicine, the stomach’s Qi is supposed to move downwards. When it doesn’t, it can lead to nausea and vomiting symptoms. Applying pressure to Ren-10 can help restore this natural flow, harmonizing the Middle Jiao and relieving nausea. To locate Ren-10:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure three finger widths directly above your belly button.
- This point is Ren-10. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: Ren-12 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-12/Zhongwan/Middle of the Stomach)
Ren-12 is another point that harmonizes the Stomach and Middle Jiao. In traditional Chinese medicine, the Middle Jiao refers to the middle part of the body, including the stomach and spleen. Harmonizing it can help alleviate nausea. To locate Ren-12:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly above your belly button.
- This point is Ren-12. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: Liv-3 (Other Names: Liver-3/Tai Chong/Supreme Rush)
For menstrual stomach cramps, Dr. Liz has a recommendation. She suggests Liv-3. This is a pressure point on your foot for menstrual stomach cramps. It works by controlling Liver Qi and calming the Liver. In traditional Chinese medicine, the liver is associated with the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. When this flow is disrupted, it can lead to symptoms like menstrual cramps. Applying pressure to Liv-3 can help regulate the Zang Fu (the organs) affected and alleviate the pain. It is one of the best acupressure points for stomach pain during periods. To locate Liv-3:
- Place your foot flat on the floor.
- The point is located in the depression distal to the junctions of the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones (the bones leading up to your big toe and second toe).
- Apply gentle pressure to this point with your thumb.
Acupoint: EM-33 (Other Names: Luo Zhen)
Dr. Liz mentions that Luo Zhen, a handy pressure point on the hand, can alleviate stomach cramps and pain. Here’s how to find it:
- Open your hand and look at the back of your hand.
- Luo Zhen is located in the depression, just behind the knuckles of the index and middle fingers.
- Apply gentle pressure using the thumb of your other hand.
Acupoint: LI-4 (Other Names: Large Intestine-4/He Gu/Joining Valley)
LI4 is an effective pressure point in the hand for stomach pain. It can alleviate stomach cramps and pain. Here’s how to find it:
- Open your hand and look at the webbing between your thumb and index finger.
- The highest point of the muscle when the thumb and index finger are brought close together is LI4.
- Apply gentle pressure using the thumb of your other hand.
Pressure Points for Lower Abdominal Pain
- Ren-4 (Guan Yuan)
- Ren-6 (Qi Hai)
Acupoint: Ren-6 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-6/Qi Hai/Sea of Qi)
Ren-6 is a special pressure point. It has a pain-relieving effect. It works by balancing the Lower Jiao. This makes it really good for easing abdominal pain in the lower stomach area. It is one of the best pressure points for lower stomach pain. To find Ren-6:
- Begin by finding your belly button.
- Measure two finger widths directly below your belly button. This point is Ren-6.
- Use your index and middle fingers to apply gentle pressure.
Acupoint: Ren-4 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-4/Guan Yuan/Origin Pass)
Like Ren-6, Ren-4 is also effective for alleviating pain in the lower stomach area. To find Ren-4:
- Begin by finding your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly below your belly button. This point is CV4.
- Use your index and middle fingers to apply gentle pressure.
Pressure Points for Upper Stomach Pain
- Ren-12 (Zhong Wan)
- ST-21 (Beam Gate)
Acupoint: Ren-12 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-12/Zhong Wan/Middle Epigastrium)
Dr. Liz recommends Ren-12 for upper stomach pain, which helps harmonize the Stomach and Middle Jiao. It is one of the most useful pressure points for upper stomach pain. Here’s how to find it:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly above your belly button.
- This point is Ren-12. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
- Use the palm of your other hand to gently rub this area in both directions for 1-2 minutes.
Acupoint: ST-21 (Other Names: Stomach-21/Liang Men/Beam Gate)
ST-21 is another point that harmonizes the Stomach and Middle Jiao, relieving upper stomach pain. To locate ST21:
- Start by finding your belly button.
- Measure three finger widths to the left or right of your belly button.
- Move up 4 finger widths.
- This point is ST-21. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
- Use the palm of your other hand to gently rub this area in both directions for 1-2 minutes.
Pressure Points on the Stomach for Constipation
For constipation relief, Dr. Liz recommends a combination of local abdominal points and massage therapy. These points promote downward movement and bowel movements, helping to alleviate constipation.
- SP-14 (Fu Jie)
- SP-15 (Da Heng)
- ST-25 (Tian Shu)
- Ren-4 (Guan Yuan)
- Ren-6 (Qi Hai)
Acupoint: SP-14 (Other Names: Spleen-14/Fu Jie/Abdomen Stagnation)
SP-14 promotes the downward movement of Qi, helping to alleviate constipation. Here’s how to find it:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure a little over two finger width directly below your belly button. This is a rough estimate, as everyone’s fingers are different sizes, but it should get you to the general area.
- From this point, move five finger widths to the right if you’re looking for SP14 on your right side or to the left if you’re looking for SP14 on your left side.
- This point is SP14. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: SP-15 (Other Names: Spleen-15/Da Heng/Great Horizontal)
Next is SP15, another point that promotes the downward movement of Qi. To locate SP15:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Start at your belly button. Move five finger widths to the right if you want to find SP15 on your right side. Move five finger widths to the left if you’re going to find SP15 on your left side.
- This point is SP15. It’s located on the flat area of your abdomen, to the side of the vertical muscles running down it.
- Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: ST-25 (Other Names: Stomach-25/Tian Shu/Celestial Pivot)
ST-25 is a point that promotes bowel movements, providing relief from constipation. To locate ST-25:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure three finger widths to the left or right of your belly button.
- This point is ST25. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: Ren-6 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-6/Qi Hai/Sea of Qi)
Ren-6 is a point that promotes the downward movement of Qi, helping to alleviate constipation. Here’s how to find it:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure two finger widths directly below your belly button.
- This point is CV6. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
Acupoint: Ren-4 (Other Names: The Conception Vessel-4/Guan Yuan/Origin Pass)
Finally, Ren-4 is another point that promotes the downward movement of Qi. To locate CV4:
- Start by locating your belly button.
- Measure four finger widths directly below your belly button.
- This point is Ren-4. Apply gentle pressure with your index and middle fingers.
FAQ
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, but you might still have some questions. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Dr. Leonar Liz has kindly answered some common queries about acupressure for stomach ailments. Let’s dive in:
How can acupressure points help to relieve gas in the stomach?
You’ll be pleased to know that acupressure points can work wonders for relieving gas in your stomach. Dr. Liz says these pressure points are helpful. They control and balance how your organs work. They’re perfect for your Stomach, Spleen, and Liver. Applying pressure to these points can help balance your body’s energy and alleviate discomfort from gas.
Can you explain how acupressure can be used to treat stomach flu?
Absolutely! The specific acupressure points used to treat stomach flu depend on the nature of your illness—whether it’s hot or cold, dry or damp. But aside from treating the root cause of the stomach flu, acupressure can also relieve the symptoms you’re experiencing. It’s all about restoring balance to your body’s energy flow.
How can pressure points be used to alleviate acidity in the stomach?
Acidity in the stomach can be quite uncomfortable, but acupressure can help. Dr. Liz explains that pressure points can regulate the flow of energy, or Qi, in your Stomach, helping it move in a downward direction. This can help reduce acidity and provide relief from symptoms.
Don’t forget acupressure can help manage symptoms, but it’s not the same as seeing a doctor. You should see a healthcare provider if your symptoms are bad or won’t go away. Happy pressing!
Related Articles
- Pressure points to relieve gas – Discover more about how acupressure can help with other digestive issues. This guide provides practical and easy-to-follow steps to relieve gas and bloating using acupressure points.
- Discover pressure points for constipation – This article complements your knowledge from the current read, offering practical tips on alleviating constipation. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding, apply new skills, and continue your wellness journey with TCM Tips.
