Simple Acupressure Techniques for Shoulder and Back Pain Relief
Hi, I’m Neil, a registered acupuncturist based in Richmond, BC. I often hear this question from patients and friends:
"Is there anything I can do at home to help relieve shoulder or back pain?"
The answer is yes, and it doesn’t involve medication or equipment. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we often use acupressure to stimulate specific points on the body that help reduce tension and improve circulation. It’s like acupuncture, but without needles, just your hands.
Today, I want to share three effective acupressure points you can try at home. These techniques are simple, safe, and only take a few minutes. I’ve also included short videos so you can follow along step by step.
What Is Acupressure, and How Can It Help?
Before we jump in, let me explain what acupressure is. It’s a form of therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), using gentle pressure on specific points to improve energy flow—what we call "Qi"—and relieve pain or discomfort.
While acupuncture uses needles, acupressure relies on fingers and palms, making it easy to practice at home. It’s commonly used for everything from stress and anxiety to pain relief and muscle tension.
Now let’s take a closer look at three powerful acupressure points you can use to ease shoulder and back pain.
1. Yuji (LU10): For Frontal Shoulder Pain
(Try this if your pain is near the front of your shoulder)
This point is located on the palm side of your hand, below the base of your thumb. To find it, look for the small muscle just to the side of the bone under your thumb. Massage it gently in circular motions, about 36 times.
This point comes from the Lung meridian and is traditionally used in Chinese remedies for shoulder pain, especially when the tension sits near the front of the shoulder. I often recommend it to patients who feel tightness or soreness after computer work or lifting.
2. Houxi (SI3): For Upper Back and Scapula Pain
(Great for pain radiating from your shoulder to your upper back)
If your discomfort travels from your shoulder tip toward your shoulder blade, this point may help. It’s located at the outer edge of your palm, just under the knuckle of your pinky finger. Again, use firm but gentle pressure and massage 36 times.
Houxi is part of the Small Intestine meridian and is known in Eastern medicine for back pain relief. It’s especially useful when the pain feels deep or stubborn.
3. Large Intestine (LI10): For Side Shoulder Pain
(Try this if your pain is on the outer side of your shoulder)
Find this point by measuring about one-third of the way down your forearm from the elbow toward your wrist. Press gently into the most tender spot you find and massage it for 36 circles.
This point is popular in TCM for anxiety and tension-related pain, and I often use it in acupuncture sessions for both emotional and physical release.
Can Acupressure Really Work?
While these simple techniques can’t replace a personalized diagnosis or professional care, they can be a great way to manage pain in between sessions. If you're struggling with recurring discomfort, it’s always best to consult a licensed TCM practitioner.
Many of my patients feel noticeable relief with just a few minutes of practice a day. And if these acupoints help you, that’s already a big step in healing.
Let's Talk If You Need Support
As a TCM practitioner, I use both acupuncture and acupressure to treat shoulder and back pain. These methods are safe, natural, and tailored to your specific condition. If you’re in the Richmond or Greater Vancouver area, feel free to reach out for a consultation.
