Pressure points are specific sensitive areas on the surface of the body. You can exploit a pressure point for many uses. Martial artists quickly disable attackers by using a simple but forced push on a pressure point. Stimulation of pressure points also helps to relieve pain and assists in massage therapy.
Temples
Each side of your head has a small flat area between the ear and eye. The pressure points here are located approximately half an inch from the edge of the eyebrow. If you press these two points on both sides of the head simultaneously while moving your fingers in circles, you may find some relief from headaches.
Dokko
The dokko is a specific point just behind each ear. According to Pressure Point Karate, the dokko is an effective target area in martial arts. The website Press the Point.com notes that this point is also effective for gentle stimulation to relieve stress. The dokko is located where the jaw and skull meet. In most people, this point is just under the outer ledge of the earlobe at the base of the ear.
Hichu
Both Pressure Point Karate and Press the Point.com note that the hichu pressure point is an important area for self-defense. The hichu is located where the neck and chest meet, just below the Adam's apple. It is a vital point in the body, as the trachea passes just below this surface. A small amount of force to this area can be seriously debilitating.
Kote
Near the inside of the elbow, where the skin creases on a bent arm, is the kote pressure point. You may gently press this point in a circular motion or strike it forcefully to inflict pain. Press the Point.com notes that the kote has a tradition of use for reducing anger. Locating the kote is easier when you press hard and briefly to find the exact point that causes pain.
Uchi Kuro Bushi
The uchi kuro bushi is located near the meeting point of the foot and ankle. It is below the bony protrusion on the inside of the lower ankle. Move down and forward from this protrusion until you find the cavity of this joint. This is a pressure point used in martial arts to inflict pain and damage.
Webbing of the Hand
A pressure point exists in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger on each hand. If you press firmly on this point by pinching from both sides, you will feel some discomfort. According to Press the Point.com, stimulation of this area may help relieve tension or pain in the head and back, and perhaps even other areas.
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Writer Bio
James Highland started writing professionally in 1998. He has written for the New York Institute of Finance and Chron.com. He has an extensive background in financial investing and has taught computer programming courses for two New York companies. He has a Bachelor of Arts in film production from Indiana University.