Acupressure Points for Tonsilitis

Acupressure is similar to acupuncture but does not use needles. A practitioner uses her hands, and sometimes even knees and elbows, to press on certain pressure points on the body. You can even perform acupressure on yourself using your hands if you learn the correct pressure points. The idea is that stimulation of these pressure points relieves symptoms and promotes self-healing. Always consult with your doctor before trying acupressure therapy for your tonsillitis, especially if you have fever.

Tonsillitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of your tonsils that is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Strep throat, which is a bacterial infection, requires treatment with an antibiotic. Treat tonsillitis with acupressure only if the condition is due to a viral infection, like a cold.

You can learn acupressure points so that you can provide self-therapy. However, you should always go to an acupressure specialist initially so you ensure you are targeting the correct locations on the body. In addition, acupressure is not medical treatment. Tonsillitis caused by a bacterial illness requires treatment with an antibiotic. For example, strep throat requires medical treatment to avoid dangerous outcomes, like kidney damage and cardiovascular disorders if it is not treated correctly.

PointfFinder, a website developed by Kevin Boyd who is the creator of the Stanford University Medical School's Web environment, identifies an acupressure point on the inside of your elbow for tonsillitis. Hold out your right arm with the inside of your elbow facing you. Using your index finger on the left hand, press the inside of your right elbow on the thumb side for 20 to 25 seconds.

PointFinder identifies a point on the back of your legs for tonsillitis. Stand with your legs straight, about shoulder-width apart. Using the first two fingers of each hand, gently press on the crease that is formed directly behind your knees when your legs are bent. Apply pressure for 20 to 25 seconds. Do not use this acupressure point if you have varicose veins.

PointFinder identifies a tonsillitis pressure point on your thumb. Using the thumb on your left hand, press the spot just under the thumbnail on your right hand that is furthest from your fingers. Continue to apply pressure for 20 to 25 seconds.

PointFinder identifies a tonsillitis pressure point on your second toe, next to your big toe. Using either your right or left forefinger, press on a spot just under the nail on your second toe that is furthest from your big toe. Apply pressure for 20 to 25 seconds.