Hello, I’m Nicole a traditional acupuncturist and passionate advocate for holistic health. My journey into the world of acupuncture began when I was looking for a holistic treatment after suffering a burnout from long-term stress in my corporate job. The transformative effects of acupuncture were so inspiring that I decided to change my career. After three years of in-depth training, I now run two acupuncture clinics in Hatton and Leamington Spa and love helping others with their wellbeing.
Today, I’m excited to delve into the realm of foot health, exploring the benefits of acupuncture and highlighting three acupressure points on the feet that can be helpful for common ailments.
Our feet are often overlooked and underappreciated. Neglecting their health can lead to various issues, affecting not only our mobility but also our overall wellbeing. This is where acupuncture steps in.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a branch of traditional medicine that has been practiced in China for over 2,500 years. It involves the insertion of very fine, flexible needles. While the thought of needles might make some cringe, it’s interesting to note that the needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin – about the thickness of two human hairs. Many people find acupuncture to be a virtually painless and relaxing experience. It’s not just needles though, other techniques such as moxibustion, cupping, ear seeds and gua sha are often used in conjunction.
Does it work?
Numerous studies have investigated its effectiveness, making acupuncture an increasingly evidence-based practice in modern healthcare. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises acupuncture as a viable treatment for more than 100 health concerns, including pain management, digestive issues, and depression. However, as a holistic medicine, the focus is not just the specific illness. As acupuncturists, we treat each person as a unique individual and we aim to restore overall balance and wellbeing.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by in-depth qualified, licensed practitioners. It is a good idea to check the credentials of your acupuncturist and to choose someone who belongs to a reputable professional association such as the British Acupuncture Council.
And what about the feet?
The feet play a key role in many acupuncture treatment protocols. With a total of around 361 recognised acupuncture points across the body, approximately 40 commonly used acupuncture points are found on each foot alone. These points are strategically chosen to influence different aspects of physical and mental health.
What can some points on my feet possibly do?
If you are asking yourself this question, then take a look at these three superhero acupuncture points for foot and other ailments that I commonly use in clinic:
1. Tai Chong (Liver 3): Located on the top of the foot, between the big toe and the second toe, this point is renowned for its ability to alleviate stress and promote emotional balance. Stimulating Tai Chong can also relieve tension in the feet and improve circulation.
2. Tai Bai (Spleen 3): Positioned on the arch of the foot, this acupressure point is a powerhouse for grounding and boosting energy. It can aid in digestion, address fatigue, and contribute to overall vitality. Regular stimulation of Tai Bai can provide relief for those experiencing tired and achy feet, offering a natural remedy for common foot discomfort.
3. Zhiyin (Bladder 67): Situated on the outer corner of the smallest toe, near the toenail, this point is renowned for its application in Traditional Chinese Medicine to assist in turning breech babies during pregnancy. Moxibustion on this point is thought to stimulate the uterus and encourage the baby to shift into the correct position. Zhiyin can also help with headaches and eye strain.
You can use gentle self-acupressure massage on any these points for 1-2 minutes. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified acupuncturist or healthcare professional before incorporating acupressure into your routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or if you’re pregnant.
Still not sure whether this could put the spring back into your step?
Here is a real-life case study from my clinic using acupuncture and moxibustion for chilblains:
Sarah (53) came to me with a longstanding history of chilblains which get exacerbated by cold weather. Chilblains are characterised by painful, itchy inflammation of small blood vessels in the skin of the toes and make winters unbearable for Sarah. The treatment plan involved a combination of acupuncture and moxibustion, a technique using the herb Artemisia vulgaris. Acupuncture targeted specific acupoints in the affected areas on the feet to promote improved circulation. Moxibustion, with its warming properties, was applied to enhance the therapeutic effects. After just one session, Sarah experienced significant relief. The inflammation started to subside and the persistent discomfort associated with her chilblains diminished. Using additional acupuncture points to address her underlying imbalances, she not only found relief for her physical symptoms but also felt less stressed and more balanced.
In summary, acupuncture is a safe and effective holistic treatment that can be used to address a wide range of health concerns, including foot health. If you’re interested in exploring acupuncture, please consult with a qualified acupuncturist. I offer free 15-minute consultations where you can discuss your needs.
