How does Rory use acupressure?
Assessment guides the choice of points and areas. Traditional point selection and relevant muscular findings may inform the discussion, without treating either as proof of the cause of a symptom.
The pressure, position and duration are adjusted to your comfort. Acupressure may be used on its own or alongside another suitable technique; it is not required at every appointment.
What might it feel like?
You may feel pressure or an ache around the selected area. It should not be something you feel obliged to endure. Tell Rory about sharp pain, tingling, distress or any unexpected sensation.
If you prefer not to have needles, ask whether acupressure is appropriate. Needle-free does not mean risk-free or suitable for every presentation.
Supporting manual soft tissue care
Hands-on soft tissue techniques may use pressure or movement around relevant muscles and other tissues. This is broader than acupressure at selected points. Cupping and gua sha are separate adjuncts, not names for all manual care.
The amount of pressure is agreed and adjusted. A painful technique is not automatically more effective, and soft tissue care can be used without cups, tools or needles.
Suitability, consent and self-care
Tell Rory about recent injury or surgery, easy bruising, medicines affecting clotting, skin problems, altered sensation, pregnancy and other relevant health concerns. Pressure may need to be modified or avoided.
Soreness, bruising or irritation can occur. You can decline a technique or ask for it to stop. Do not apply strong pressure to a new injury or unexplained symptom without assessment.
Any self-care suggestion should be specific to your situation and fit your existing clinical advice. Ask which area, how much pressure and when to stop rather than copying a general point chart.
Review the response, not just the pressure
A traditional point name or a tender area does not establish that pressure will help a particular condition. Evidence and expectations need to be discussed for the assessed presentation; no general recovery outcome is promised.
Review practical changes and reconsider the plan if it is not useful. Acupressure and manual care do not replace necessary medical care or prescribed rehabilitation.