Which acupressure points can be massaged to relieve abdominal bloating?
Mar 30, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ding Yu
Introduction
Abdominal distension can be alleviated effectively by massaging acupoints such as Tianshu (ST25), Zhongwan (CV12), and Xiawan (CV10). However, massage serves only as an adjunctive therapy; pharmacological treatment via oral medication is required to address abdominal distension. During treatment, patients should consume easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods, such as millet porridge, pumpkin porridge, and Chinese yam porridge.
In daily life, abdominal bloating is a highly distressing condition. Often, individuals feel extremely hungry yet experience loss of appetite—and may even suffer from abdominal distension and discomfort. If left unaddressed over time, this can lead to constipation, nausea, and other symptoms. So, which acupressure points should be massaged to relieve abdominal bloating? Below, we address this question.
Which acupressure points can help relieve abdominal bloating?
Abdominal bloating can be alleviated by massaging specific acupoints—including Tianshu (ST25), Zhongwan (CV12), and Xiawan (CV10)—which effectively ease bloating symptoms. However, massage serves only as an adjunctive therapy; pharmacological treatment via oral medication remains essential for managing abdominal bloating.
Abdominal bloating commonly results from indigestion—often triggered by overeating or abdominal exposure to cold. Primary symptoms include upper abdominal pain, early satiety, and abdominal distension, frequently accompanied by belching, nausea, and vomiting. Some patients may also experience acid reflux, decreased appetite, or a burning sensation in the upper or mid-abdomen. When bloating arises from indigestion, massaging acupoints such as Tianshu (ST25), Zhongwan (CV12), and Xiawan (CV10) can effectively alleviate bloating. During massage, pressure should be applied gradually—from light to firm—and each session should last approximately 10–15 minutes.
Although massage may serve as a supportive measure for indigestion-related bloating, it cannot treat the underlying indigestion itself. Patients must therefore follow their physician’s guidance and take prescribed medications—such as domperidone tablets or mosapride citrate tablets—to manage the condition effectively.
During treatment, patients are encouraged to consume easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods—for example, millet porridge, pumpkin porridge, or Chinese yam porridge.
The above outlines which acupressure points may help relieve abdominal bloating. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
