Digestive massage techniques
Jun 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
To aid digestion, you may choose to gently rub the spinal area with the palm of your hand at specific acupoints: the Stomach俞 (Weishu) point, located 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline at the level of the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra; and the Spleen俞 (Pishu) point, situated 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline at the level of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra. This massage may help relieve discomfort such as stomach distension and pain. Alternatively, medication may be taken under the guidance of a qualified physician. It is recommended to visit a正规 hospital and receive massage treatment under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.
Generally, the massage method for aiding digestion involves using kneading, rubbing, and acupressure techniques on corresponding areas of the back to relieve discomfort such as bloating and stomach pain. The specific steps are as follows:
1. The practitioner washes hands thoroughly with clean water and applies massage oil.
2. The patient lies prone, exposing the back, and relaxes both physically and mentally.
3. The practitioner uses the palm to perform transverse friction over the spinal region, specifically at the stomach shu point (Weishu), located 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline below the spinous process of the 12th thoracic vertebra, and the spleen shu point (Pishu), located 1.5 cun lateral to the posterior midline below the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra. One cun is approximately the width of two fingers.
4. Once the patient's skin feels warm and slightly reddened due to increased circulation, conclude the procedure by applying a gentle kneading technique to relax the treated area.
In daily life, it is helpful to consume more high-fiber foods to promote gastrointestinal motility. Eating bananas can also aid intestinal digestion. Alternatively, under the guidance of a qualified physician, medications such as compound digestive enzymes or cisapride may be taken to enhance intestinal motility. It is recommended to seek treatment at a reputable medical facility and receive massage therapy under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.
