This week we turn the attention of this blog to acupuncture points. The point for this week is Large Intestine 4 [LI4]. Located in the he web of flesh between your thumb and index finger. it is one of the easiest acupuncture points to locate. If you just pinch the web with your other index finger and thumb, chances are excellent that you are right on top of it. For those who need more exacting directions, pull your thumb in so that all your fingers are together. LI4 is at the end of the crease running next to the thumb on the back of the hand.
So what’s so great about LI4? If you’ve spent any time at Fink Family Wellness of Leesburg you know that we believe that a world without pain is a better place to live. LI4 is a perfect compliment to that mission because it is known far and wide as a pain relieving point. It has been described as relieving all types of pain in the body including abdominal pain. It is especially good for headaches. In addition, it is called the command point for the face and mouth and is indicated in the treatment of facial muscle paralysis, sore throat and even toothaches. Keep in mind that a full acupuncture session for any of these conditions would probably involve more points that LI4. Still, as a home remedy, it’s a good place to start until you can get in and see your acupuncturist.
To activate the point, we’re going to use acupressure. Pinch the web between the thumb and index finger. Give it a good squeeze. Hold that point for about 30 seconds. Repeat three or four times throughout the day as needed.
A word of caution. If you are pregnant do not use this point. LI4 is an effective pain relieving point because it is a powerful release point. In essence, it is communicating to the body, “Release, release, release”. This point is used in conjunction with others for inducing labor. There are many other ways to deal with headaches and pains that are safe and effective for the pregnant patient.
