🌿 Folk Prescriptions

Vertical Motion Techniques
I. Pressing Method:
There are three types: finger pressing, palm pressing, and elbow pressing.
Technique: Using the tip or pad of the thumb to press the body surface is called “finger pressing.” Using one palm or both palms, or stacking both palms to press the surface is called “palm pressing.” Using the elbow tip to press the surface is termed “elbow pressing.”
Requirements: During pressing, the hand must firmly adhere to the body surface, applying pressure to a specific area or acupoint. Perform a lifting-and-pressing motion without moving. Pressure should gradually increase from light to heavy; avoid sudden, forceful pressing.
Clinical application: Pressing is often combined with kneading in clinical practice, forming the “press-knead” compound technique. Finger pressing applies to acupoints throughout the body; palm and elbow pressing are commonly used on the back, abdomen, limbs, and shoulders. This method relaxes muscles, opens blockages, unblocks meridians, promotes blood circulation, and relieves pain. It is widely used for treating conditions such as gastric pain, headache, limb soreness, numbness, and pain.
II. Pinching Method
Definition: A technique involving pressing acupoints with the nails of the thumb, index, or middle finger without breaking the skin.
Technique: The practitioner uses one or both thumbs, index, or middle fingers to press and pinch the acupoint forcefully.
Application: Used in emergencies, it can open orifices, awaken spirit, restore yang, expel wind-cold, and stimulate nerves.
Supplement: Clamping Method
Definition: A technique where the fingers clamp the patient and apply rapid sliding movements.
Technique: The practitioner uses the second phalanx of the thumb and index finger, or bends the index and middle fingers apart into a pencil-like shape, clamps the affected finger, and performs rapid sliding motions from the base to the tip, or uses a quick flicking motion.
Application: Promotes meridian flow, lubricates joints.