Self-acupressure uses gentle, firm pressure from the thumb or index finger on specific meridian points to stimulate the body's natural recovery processes. It is safe for use at home, requires no equipment, and can be practiced during rest periods, before medical appointments, or at any time symptoms arise.
The Four Core Points
On the inner forearm. Turn the palm face-up. Measure 3 finger-widths from the wrist crease toward the elbow. P6 is at the midpoint between the two large tendons you can feel in the center of the forearm.
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting — one of the most research-supported acupressure applications in oncology. Also effective for anxiety-related nausea, morning nausea, and motion sickness.
Press for 2–3 minutes on each wrist, alternating. Use before meals, before chemotherapy infusion, or when nausea begins. "Sea-Band" wristbands also apply passive pressure to this point.
On the back of the hand. Press the thumb and index finger together — a small mound of muscle appears at their junction on the back of the hand. LI4 is at the highest point of this mound, between the base of the thumb and the base of the index finger.
General pain relief, headaches, facial pain, constipation, and immune stimulation. Known as the body's most widely accessible natural analgesic point.
Press firmly for 2 minutes on each hand. A dull, traveling ache up the arm is normal and indicates correct location.
Do not use during pregnancy — LI4 stimulates uterine contractions.
Below the knee. Sit with the knee bent at 90 degrees. Place 4 fingers just below the outer edge of the kneecap. ST36 is at the tip of the fourth finger, one finger-width away from the shinbone toward the outer edge of the leg.
Cancer-related fatigue (extreme tiredness), nausea, immune stimulation, and white blood cell stabilization. Research on ST36 shows consistent immune-modulating effects — it is sometimes called the "longevity point" in traditional Chinese medicine for its broad tonic effects.
Press for 3 minutes on each leg. Best practiced daily, particularly on days following chemotherapy infusion or when fatigue is highest.
On the inner ankle. Find the bony prominence on the inner side of the ankle (medial malleolus). KI3 is in the hollow midpoint between this prominence and the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle.
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling in feet and hands), hot flashes from hormonal therapy, night sweats, and fatigue. In Chinese medicine this point nourishes Kidney Yin — corresponding to hormonal, regenerative, and nervous system function.
Gentle circular massage for 3 minutes on each ankle. Best used at bedtime for neuropathy and hot flash symptoms.
Daily Practice Log
| Day / Date | Symptom / Concern | Point(s) Used | Duration | Effect Noticed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example: Mon, 2 Jun | Nausea after lunchtime, post-therapy | P6 — both wrists | 3 min each side | Nausea reduced within 10 min; chest felt lighter |
Acupressure at P6 for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is rated Level A evidence (supported by multiple RCTs) in the Society for Integrative Oncology guidelines. ST36 stimulation is consistently associated with immune modulation in multiple cancer patient studies. KI3 has emerging evidence in peripheral neuropathy management. LI4 has broad analgesic evidence across multiple pain conditions. For best results, combine self-acupressure with treatment from a certified oncology acupuncturist — this guide supports, but does not replace, professional care.