#Live Whole Health #140: Accupressure for the head and neck VA News - Veterans Affairs (.gov)

Do you suffer from “text neck?” This problem comes due to our necks being in a forward position while looking at our phones for prolonged times. This can lead to tension and discomfort in the neck and head and shoulders.

A great self-care method to treat a range of neck, head or shoulder problems is to apply acupressure in order to ease the muscles of the neck and head. Acupressure is a method of massage therapy which is rooted in ancient techniques that is over three thousand years old. Acupressure and massage therapy provide numerous physiological and general advantages. A few people have discovered the benefits of acupressure in headaches.

If you suffer from headaches or not, come join the Dr. Lisa Lourey, licensed acupuncturist from Omaha VA Medical Center. Omaha VA Medical Center, to learn this quick Acupressure self-care routine to treat headaches.

  • Always clean your hands before and after your practice.
  • Get rid of jewelry such as rings, watches or bracelets, necklaces, earrings.
  • Unwind restrictive clothing.
  • Be in a comfortable position.
  • Take away any distractions from the environment, such as your smartphone or computer, excluding the screen you’re watching to.
  • You might want to put on relaxing background music or soothing background sounds.
  • Drinking water is at hand.


Precautions

  • Avoid applying massages to areas of redness, swelling or damaged skin.
  • If you suffer from a bleeding disorder , or are taking medications to thin your blood, apply low pressure.
  • Do not use during pregnancy.

Other acupressure routines as well as self-care videos are available in the archives of #LiveWholeHealth on VA News: #LiveWholeHealth – VA News.


More details

Self-care techniques are an essential aspect of our overall health and wellbeing. Knowing how to take care for ourselves can improve the our quality of life and allows us to be in charge of our lives and our health. Learn more about the well-being programs on VA Well-Being Programs: Whole Health (va.gov).