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Difference Between Accupressure & Accupuncture

Acupressure and acupuncture seek to accomplish the same goal using two different methods. Acupuncture breaks the skin with tiny needles, while acupressure targets pressure points without inserting any needles.

  1. Theory

    • Acupressure and acupuncture both focus on relieving pain by clearing blockages in the 14 meridians or paths of energy within the body. This energy is also called chi.

    Origin

    • Acupressure, or zhi ya, is much older than acupuncture, or zhen jiu. Both practices are part of traditional Chinese medicine.

    Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture practitioners must be specially trained to insert long, thin needles just under the surface of the skin. The procedure is virtually painless.

    Acupressure

    • Acupressure is a form of directed massage that anyone can perform with the help of a handbook. It is much less exact and requires no equipment.

    Ailments

    • Acupressure and acupuncture are used to treat a variety of ailments, including migraines, allergies, depression and arthritis.

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