Angina, acupressure for angina, heart disease, Heart Health Infocenter, Holisticonline.com

Alternative and Complementary Remedies Angina

Acupressure for Angina

Applying pressure for at least one minute to several acupressure points may relieve angina symptoms.

1. (Pc 6, Inner Gate)

This point is located on your wrist at the palm side. It is located two thumb widths above the wrist crease in the center of the arm. According to oriental medicine, the inner point (Pc 6) regulates ch'i as well as blood in the chest. Hence, it is the point of choice for any pain or discomfort of the chest.

Start with applying medium pressure. Build it up gradually. Hold about a minute, and gradually release the pressure. Do it on both wrists.

2. (Pc 4, Cleft Gate)

This point is also located on the palm side of your wrist. To locate it, find the midpoint between the wrist crease and elbow crease. From this point, go down one thumb width toward the wrist. Pc 4 is located right in the center.

Cleft gate (Pc 4) is very powerful for any discomfort in the chest area. When the pain is intense or acute, this is the point of choice for acupressure.

In Chinese medicine, cleft gate is also used for heart palpitations and arrhythmia.
Use medium pressure for about a minute. Repeat applying the pressure several times if pain is acute. Make sure that you work on both arms.

3. (Sp 10, Sea of Blood)

To locate Sp 10, find a point about 2 thumb widths above the top edge of the knee. Here you will feel a bulge in your thigh muscles on the top of your leg, toward the inside.

Apply pressure to the point by pressing firmly for a minute with your thumb or the knuckle of your middle finger.

Caution: These remedies are not meant to be used as a treatment for heart attack. If you suspect a heart attack, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Angina is a warning sign that should not be ignored. Studies have shown that people who receive prompt medical attention have a much better chance for recovery than those who delay even a few hours.