A Proper Guide On Foot Pressure Points And Their Benefits

1. Liver 3

Also referred to as LIV-3 or LV-3, this pressure point on our feet is linked to the liver meridian. It is present at the top side of the foot, just between the big toe and the second one. Slide the finger down to 2 finger widths onto the foot, and this point is right there.

Targeting LV-3 is useful when we have headaches, vertigo, or eye pain. It may also help reduce weakness, abdominal distention, and hiccups. For women, this acupoint can be used to control irregular menstruation.

2. Spleen 4

Spleen 4 has many names: SP-4, Prince’s Grandson, and Gongsun. It is situated on the foot’s medial side, in the depression that’s distal and inferior to the base of first metatarsal bone. Look at the point where the foot starts to arch, and we can pinpoint its location.

The acupoint is typically used for solving digestive problems like gastric pain, bad appetite, diarrhea, and feelings of stuffiness. It also aids to regulate menstruation and chest congestion.

3. Spleen 5

To find this pressure point, we have to locate the medial malleolus and navicular tubercule bones. SP-5 is present at the midway of these two bones. It is also known as “Shang Qiu” in Chinese medicine.

Use them if we suffer from constipation, diarrhea, or abdominal pain - massaging this spot during these moments may prove to be beneficial. Spleen 5 is also popular for easing discomfort and tightness in the tongue, ankle, and feet.

4. Liver 1

On the lateral side of our foot’s dorsum, LV-1 is located at the big toe’s terminal phalanx. This point is just between the lateral corner of our toenail and interphalangeal joint. We can also measure 0.1 cun from the corner of the nail.

Liver 1 is utilized for regulating energy in the liver and genitals. It may also restore consciousness and resolve the damp heat. Its general indications are hernia, epilepsy, enuresis, and metrostaxis.

5. Liver 4

Also called “Mount Center” and “Zhong Feng”, LV-4 lies on the dorsum of foot. We have to locate the depression in the medial side of the tibialis anterior tendon. For professional therapy, practitioners will perpendicularly insert a needle at depth of 0.5 to 0.8 cun for this acupoint.

Using this pressure point is considered to influence various health conditions like hepatitis and jaundice. It can also work against abdominal pain and hernia. LV-4 may also clear heat and regulate Liver Qi.

6. Gall Bladder 41

Gall Bladder or GB-41 is situated on the foot’s dorsum - on the depression that’s lateral to extensor digitorum longus muscle tendon. Other way to find it is through looking at the junction of the fourth and fifth metatarsal bones.

Massaging this acupoint can help with various physical and mental issues. Physically, it may aid with chest pain, dizziness, headaches, and tinnitus. Mentally, Gall Bladder 41 promotes emotional release via tears. This is why it’s also referred to as “Foot Above Tears.”

7. Gall Bladder 44

This pressure point is located at the end of the fourth toe. Just measure 0.1 cun from the corner of the toenail, and we’ll find it sitting right there. In Chinese, it is called Zuqiaoyin, meaning “Foot Portal Yin”.

If we have migraine, then using the GB-44 may be a great method to ease the pain. It could also be utilized for other health conditions like redness in eyes, tinnitus, and hemiplegia. This acupoint is also great for promoting better decision making.

8. Stomach 43

Stomach 8 is a great foot pressure point that's present at the junction of second and third metatarsal bones. It is great for reducing the symptoms of edema and swelling in the feet and legs.

Aka Xiangu (Sunken Valley), ST-43 is a powerful pressure point for improving circulation and pain relief. It may also counter the effects of digestive problems like bloating and abdominal pain.

9. Stomach 42

When we look between the tendons of digitorum longus and extensor hallucis longus, we can easily locate the Stomach 42 pressure point. It runs along the stomach meridian and is found at the top of our foot’s dorsum.

Targeting ST-42 is good for the stomach, as it aids to relieve gastric pain, abdominal distension, and face swelling. If we have a toothache, then this acupoint could come in handy too. It ultimately helps to harmonize the stomach and clear heat from the ST meridian.

10. Stomach 45

ST-45 is found on the end of the second toe. It’s on the lateral side, and 0.1 cun from the toenail. Stomach 45 is called “Lidui” in Chinese practice, which means “Running Point”.

This acupoint has multiple benefits if used correctly - it may decrease the symptoms of swelling, sore throat, and toothache. It may also be of great help against nightmares and psychosis. Massage the spot daily in order to clear heat from the meridian.

11. Kidney 1

This pressure point is found on the sole of our foot - just between the second and third toe. We have to go one-third of the way from the plantar surface of the second toe to the heel. It is also called “Yongquan” and “Rushing Spring”.

By targeting Kidney 1, we can effectively reduce plantar fasciitis pain. Massaging this spot along with various plantar fasciitis exercises can quickly promote the foot’s well-being. This acupoint may also be good for treating nausea, insomnia, anxiety, and dry mouth.

12. Bladder 60

Bladder 60 is situated in the depression between the lateral malleolus (outer ankle bone) and the Achilles tendon. This acupoint is also known as Kunlun, inspired by the Asian Mountain Ranges.

Using this pressure point may help treat various health conditions like ankle sprains and foot tendonitis by reducing inflammation. That’s why it is commonly referred to as the “Aspirin Point.” Remember that bladder 60 can also induce labor - making it unsuitable for pregnant women.

Since many important pressure points are located on different parts of the feet, it's essential to understand how to use them effectively to maximize the benefits. Common mistakes often happen during self-massage. So, here is a step-by-step guide to properly massage the foot pressure point:

• Get into a comfortable position. You may either lie down on a mat or sit on the chair.
• Take deep breaths and try to free your mind from stress and anxiety. A calm mind will help a lot to make the massage more effective.
• Bring the foot towards you through bending the knee.
• Find the accurate location of the pressure point you want to massage. Adjust the foot accordingly.
• If you are focusing on Spleen 4, position the foot to expose the inside edge. For Kidney 1, make sure the sole is facing your body.
• Once you have got into position and found the acupoint, it’s time to massage them.
• Apply gentle but firm pressure on the point using the thumb or index finger - these are great for exerting more pressure. Avoid pressing too hard, as that could lead to discomfort or injury.
• Hold the press for 1 to 3 seconds, then lift the finger slowly and steadily.
• For a better massage, start making circular motions with the fingers to massage the spot. 
• Repeat the process for a few minutes.

If self-massage doesn’t seem to do the trick, professional sessions may be the way to go for better results. There are multiple benefits of acupuncture and reflexology therapy, so visit a local practitioner once a month.

When To Use Pressure Point On Foot?

Pressure points on the feet can be used in the morning to boost Qi levels, making us more active and focused throughout the day. Pair this with hand pressure points, and we can unblock energy pathways and enhance overall well-being.

They can also be used during the afternoon if you start to feel lazy and sleepy. A quick press may revitalize your energy levels and help you avoid another round of caffeine. Massaging the foot acupoints at night can also promote a sense of calm, helping you sleep soundly.

If we understand the specific functions of pressure points, we can use them during particular health conditions. For instance, if we have digestive problems, applying firm pressure on Stomach 43 and Spleen 4 may reduce the symptoms. If we start to get headaches, pressing Gall Bladder 41 may help relieve the discomfort.

Although only a few clinical studies and scientific research have been conducted to showcase the benefits of using a pressure point on foot, they are still known to improve various aspects of our health. Here are some of the possible benefits of practicing foot pressure point therapy:

1. Can Offer Pain Relief

A good pressure point massage can relieve pain in various areas of the body. The foot contains numerous nerve endings that send calming signals to affected regions when the corresponding acupoint is massaged.

By stimulating these pressure points, a hormone called endorphin is released into our body. The endorphin reduces discomfort by combatting stress hormone (cortisol). Releasing stress ultimately calms the mind.

2. Can Increase Blood Flow

Applying pressure to foot acupoints may significantly boost blood flow, meaning blood and oxygen are now carried more efficiently to different body parts. This keeps us active and focused.

Improved circulation also supports heart health and promotes quicker recovery from sore muscles and fatigue.

3. Can Reduce Inflammation

Pressure points can help reduce inflammation in the body, which ultimately reduces various problems like tendonitis and sprain. Better circulation allows our body to eliminate waste products and toxins more efficiently, while the release of endorphin calms the mind and eases inflamed muscles.

Some acupoints are also believed to boost the immune system, which can help produce more inflammation-fighting bacteria. This can be a great way to avoid chronic inflammation in the back and joints.

4. Can Promote Lymph Flow

Our feet are an important reflex zone for the lymphatic system. Applying good pressure on the pressure points may stimulate lymph circulation, which enhances the removal of toxins and fluid retention.

The promotion of lymphatic activity can be useful in multiple ways: detoxification and immunity boost. We should consistently use the pressure points on our foot to detoxify the body. These foot acupoints are also extensively used in the lymphatic drainage massage.

5. Can Lower Anxiety And Stress

Through proper use of acupoints, we can lower our stress and anxiety levels rapidly. Pressing spots like Kidney 1 can promote relaxation through calming the nervous system. Moreover, endorphin release also counters the stress hormones and ultimately, enhances the mood.

6. Can Promote Better Sleep

Since these acupoints can decrease anxiety and stress, this may translate to better sleep too. When the acupoints are massaged before bedtime, they can relax our body and calm the mind. This state will help a person fall asleep quickly without the need for medicines.

Although the use of pressure points offers many benefits, not everyone should use them. Applying pressure points could worsen certain underlying conditions. Let’s look at some situations where we should avoid using pressure points:

• Pregnancy
• Swelling in the foot
• Redness, rashes, or skin peeling
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Damaged skin around the pressure point
• Foot infection
• Wounds and bleeding disorders

Disclaimer: The content presented in this article is only intended to be used for information purposes. It should not be taken as a form of medical / clinical advice.