Difference between Acupressure and Shiatsu


It's no secret that Asian medical practices have gone global. These are well-known for their efficacy in restoring a healthy life force balance. Acupressure and Shiatsu, for instance, are recognized for their ability to release blockages in the body's chi. Thus, problems, including headaches, cramps, muscular tightness, and illnesses, can be addressed using these therapeutic modalities. Then, what's the distinction between the two?

What is Acupressure Treatment?

Combined with acupuncture, this is an alternative medical approach based on the theory of chi's circulation along channels called meridians. In order to treat it, doctors often apply pressure to acupuncture or trigger points. The goal here is to remove obstacles. Devices, the elbow, and the hands are all used to provide pressure.

There is no proof that acupressure works, although a few studies have shown that it alleviates some types of pain, including tension in the back, discomfort in the low back, and stomach aches.

Applying pressure, rolling, or stroking on the sensitive zones is all part of the acupressure process. The acuball, energy roller, foot roller, power mat, and Teishein are just a few of the equipment available.

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is the Japanese term for applying pressure on the body using one's fingers. Pressure point work is done with the fingers on a table or mat.

Muscular stiffness can be alleviated by shiatsu because it increases tissue pliability, which in turn improves skeletal health. This encourages proper organ function, controls the endocrine system, and improves the nervous system's ability to accomplish its job. By increasing circulation, shiatsu also makes the skin look and feel better.

Points on the belly and other palpable imbalances are used in traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis. The therapy does not include the use of oils. As an added bonus, the patient remains dressed throughout therapy. Kneeling, hands, feet, elbows, knuckles, moderate stretching, and whole-body motions are all fair game for practitioners.

Similarities: Acupressure and Shiatsu

  • In order to alleviate discomfort and anxiety, both modalities employ stretching, pressure, and other body manipulation techniques.

  • None of them apply pressure with lotions or oils.

Differences: Acupressure and Shiatsu

The following table highlights the major differences between Acupressure and Shiatsu −

Characteristics

Acupressure

Shiatsu

Definition

The practice of acupressure, in which gentle pressure is applied to acupuncture sites, is said to promote emotional and physical well-being.

To practice shiatsu, one must use their fingers to apply pressure to certain acupressure spots.

Treatment

Pressure is used only at certain places in acupressure.

Shiatsu treats the entire body.

How the Pressure is Applied

In acupressure, pressure is applied in small, circular movements or in a pumping motion.

Instead of applying pressure quickly, jerky motions, shiatsu utilizes slow, steady, immovable movements.

Conclusion

The practice of acupressure, in which gentle pressure is applied to acupuncture sites, is said to promote emotional and physical well-being. It employs circular or pumping motions to concentrate pressure on specific locations. By contrast, in Shiatsu, pressure points are stimulated with the fingertips. This method treats the individual as a whole. Despite their differences, both aim to alleviate pain and tension using physical methods such as stretching, pressure, and body manipulation.

Updated on: 01-Mar-2023

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