Gas and bloating can make daily activities unpleasant. After eating, you could feel full, tight, pressured and/or burp often. Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways that can help alleviate these symptoms. A solution is to apply certain pressure points to relieve bloating and gas.
Acupressure is a traditional technique using gentle pressure over specific areas of the body. It is based on the same principles as acupuncture, but without the needles. Acupressure can be used to assist with digestion, soothe abdominal muscles and help ease discomfort.
However, research on acupressure specifically for gas and bloating remains limited. Therefore, consider it a complementary approach rather than a replacement for medical care .
Bloating occurs when the abdomen feels uncomfortable, bloated or swollen. Gas can build up because of swallowing air or from the digestion of certain types of food by gut bacteria.
Common causes include:
Moreover, stress can impact the digestive system, and gastrointestinal issues may seem worse. Knowing what your triggers are can help you to select appropriate relief strategies.
5 Pressure Points for Relief from Bloating and Gas Traditional Chinese medicine has designated a number of points that individuals press to assist their stomach to feel better. Apply pressure, but don’t press too hard, and if it hurts, stop.
The stomach point 36, or Zusanli, is a standard acupressure point linked to digestive issues .
How to locate it:
This point is traditionally employed to aid digestion and promote abdominal relaxation. However, there is still not enough evidence that direct gas relief is present.
Pericardium 6 (Neiguan) is located on the inner forearm. It’s better known for its effect on lessening nausea than on gas.
How to locate it:
If there is bloating along with nausea, this point could be useful to explore. However, there are differences between individuals.
The Large Intestine 4 (Hegu) is located between the thumb and index finger.
How to locate it:
In traditional acupressure, the point LI4 is used for a number of ailments. However, there is weak evidence that it is effective in treating intestinal gas and bloating.
Please note: This point should not be stimulated during pregnancy unless directed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Spleen 6 (Sanyinjiao) is on the inner lower leg. It’s used traditionally in the practice of medicine for a number of digestive and other health issues.
How to locate it:
This is a classic digestive remedy, but there are few quality studies on its direct effect on bloating.
Safety note: Do not stimulate SP6 unless it has been approved by your obstetric clinician.
CV12 is called Zhongwan, which is on the upper midline of the abdomen. It is often used in traditional medicine to treat stomach pain.
How to locate it:
Avoid pressing hard on your belly, especially when it is painful or following meals. Don’t use this method if you are suffering from any abdominal pain that is not known.
Additional Ways to Reduce Bloating Naturally Sometimes pressure points can be used along with simple habits that promote digestive health. To get the best results, try to follow these practical steps:
If occasional bloating does improve with lifestyle changes, this is good. Persistent or severe symptoms, however, should be medically assessed.
If bloating occurs regularly, persists for longer than 2 to 3 weeks and is accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss or changes in bowel movements, consult a health care provider.
If you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting repeatedly, blood in your stool or a lot of abdominal swelling, and you can’t have a bowel movement or pass gas, get medical help right away. Acupressure should be used in conjunction with a proper medical evaluation, particularly if symptoms are new or unexplained.
Bloating and gas can cause discomfort, disturbance and impaired quality of life. Thankfully, some basic acupressure, mindful eating, drinking water and gentle movement can get your digestion under control when it gets a little out of hand. But pressure points are not always effective or the solution to all digestive ailments.
If you are looking for specific advice on acupuncture and other complementary treatments for digestive health, please get in touch with Dr. Ma Acupuncture Centre. We can discuss possible options and determine how acupuncture can be incorporated into your wellness program .
ST36 and CV12 are traditionally used for digestive discomfort, although strong clinical evidence for direct bloating relief remains limited.
Apply gentle pressure for 30 seconds to two minutes, stopping immediately if discomfort or pain develops.
Some people report temporary comfort, but results vary, and scientific evidence supporting immediate gas relief remains limited.
Acupressure is generally low-risk when gentle, but pregnancy, injuries, and unexplained abdominal pain require additional precautions.
Consult a doctor for persistent bloating, unexplained weight loss, bowel changes, or severe pain requiring prompt medical assessment.
Whether you are suffering from arthritis pain, headaches, fatigue, depression, or even tumors, Dr. Ma Acupuncture Centre is the tried and tested provider of Chinese medicinal techniques that yield the desired results with the use of safe and proven effective solutions.
Here at Dr. Ma Acupuncture Centre, we are passionate about helping people feel better as they get healthier. We customize our acupuncture, Chinese Massage, and Gua Sha Therapy services to each individual’s precise needs. This means that you get the exact solution for your unique health issues every time.
So if you are in Ellicott City and are in search of the trusted specialist in acupuncture and Chinese Massage Ellicott City MD folks rely on, there is only one name to keep in mind – Dr. Ma Acupuncture Centre!
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