Thyroid diseases occur when the thyroid gland is inadequate. This gland produces hormones that help balance the body’s functions. Thyroid disease might be caused by autoimmune diseases, radiotherapy or certain medicines.
It is estimated that almost 5% of UAE’s residents suffer from thyroid diseases, but the number could be higher because most patients are unaware. The symptoms don’t always show that is why most problems go untreated. Symptoms such as dry skin and hair loss are blamed on the extreme climatic conditions.
Types of Thyroid Problems
A hypoactive or overworking thyroid causes thyroid diseases. The most common problems are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism
This occurs as a result of underactive thyroid which means that your body receives insufficient hormones. The symptoms include constipation, depression, brain fog, dry skin, and fatigue. Hypothyroidism is caused by an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, acute thyroiditis or if the body resists the thyroid hormone.
Hyperthyroidism
The production of excess thyroid hormone causes hyperthyroidism. The signs and symptoms are fatigue, increased pulse, nervousness, tremors, and excessive sweating. The common causes are Grave’s disease, thyroid nodules, excess iodine in the diet.
Powerful Acupressure Points Used to Treat Thyroid Problems
Acupressure is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for treatment; it involves the application of pressure to specific body points to treat medical conditions. The following information will enlighten you on acupressure points used to treat thyroid problems:
1. Yintang Point
This acupressure point is located above the nose, between the eyebrows. Traditional Chinese Medicine guidelines advice for firm but gentle application of pressure on the Yintang point to create balance in the Pituitary glands which regulates thyroid functions.
2. Large Intestine 10 Point
This is the most effective point to promote thyroid gland function. The Large Intestine 10 Point (LI10) is located on the outer part of the forearm, three finger distance under the elbow crease. Treatment is done by application of pressure on this point on both hands for 2 minutes. This treatment relieves hypothyroidism.
3. Kidney 7 Point
Traditional Chinese Medicine places the Kidney 7 point above the anterior part of the Achilles tendon, 3 finger length from the KD3 (Kidney 3 Point). Proper application of pressure at this point relieves hypothyroidism immediately.
4. Spleen 6 Point
This acupressure point is on the median part of the leg 4 fingers above the innermost anklebone. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupressure is applied for 2 minutes on this point to treat hypoactive thyroid.
5. Governing Vessel 7
This acupressure point regulates hormonal functions in the body. It is situated at the midpoint of the back. Gentle pressure is applied as hypothyroidism treatment.
6. Large Intestine 11 Point
Large Intestine 11 Point is located above the outer edge of the elbow crease. Apply gentle pressure on this point using your thumbs for 2 minutes on each arm.
7. Heart 7 Point
This is a potent acupressure point for hyperthyroidism condition. Heart 7 point is on the radial part of the wrist crease where medium pressure is applied.
8. Large Intestine 4 Point
This is among the most popular acupressure point in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Large intestine 4 (LI4) point is situated between the index finger and the thumb. Application of pressure for 3 minutes at this enhances blood flow and treats hyperthyroidism.
9. Stomach 9 Point
Traditional Chinese Medicine applies pressure on this point to heal an overactive thyroid. Stomach 9 point is on the neck and lays side-by-side with Adam’s apple. The pressure is applied for 2 minutes.
10. Stomach 40 Point
This is among the most effective acupressure point for treating thyroid ailments. It is located on the inner part of the lower leg, 2 fingers breadth to the anterior tibial crest. Pressure on this point gets rid of phlegm and stimulates thyroid functions.
11. Governing Vessel 17 Point
This point is at the back of the neck on the depression between the head and neck. Traditional Chinese Medicine recommends 2 minutes of acupressure on this point for instant relief. This point is stimulated to provide treatment to women suffering from hyperthyroidism.
12. Pericardium 6 Point
Pericardium 6 acupressure point is effective in treating hyperthyroidism. Traditional Chinese Medicine locates Pericardium 6 in the midsection of the inner forearm, 3 fingers breadth from the wrist crease. Unlike other pressure points where you apply firm pressure, this point requires consistent pressure. Stimulation of Pericardium 6 treats symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as tremors.
Traditional Chinese Medicine uses alternative treatment methods such as acupressure to treat thyroid problems and other diseases. Acupressure is used to provide instant relief to thyroid conditions. If you suspect that you have a thyroid condition, it is vital to seek treatment from a qualified practitioner who will make the correct diagnosis. In case you are confused about the amount of pressure to apply, you should consult an expert to avoid injury.
