Constipation refers to a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, occurring once every 2-3 days or even longer. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that constipation is not only related to dysfunction of the large intestine, but also to the dysfunction of the spleen and stomach in terms of intake, transportation, rising, descending, as well as the dysfunction of the kidneys in terms of warming and vaporizing. The treatment of constipation focuses on nourishing yin, clearing heat, and regulating qi. Let's take a look at how people with constipation can use massage to promote bowel movements.
Effective Acupoints for Massage to Promote Bowel Movements
Zhongwan (CV12)
This acupoint is an important point on the stomach meridian, often used to treat various digestive system disorders. It has the functions of strengthening the stomach and invigorating the spleen, as well as regulating qi and eliminating dampness. Regular massage of Zhongwan can promote digestion and improve blood circulation, effectively relieving constipation symptoms.
Location: on the midline of the abdomen, 4 cun above the navel.
Massage method: Use the index and middle fingers together to massage in a clockwise direction for 5 minutes, gradually increasing the pressure until a warm sensation is felt.
Dachangshu (BL25)
Dachangshu is the back shu point of the large intestine, where the qi of the large intestine meridian is infused. It has the function of regulating the intestinal qi and transforming stagnation. It is a commonly used acupoint for treating intestinal disorders.
Location: in the spinal area, 1.5 cun beside the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra.
Massage method: Use the thumbs to massage the acupoints on both sides, gradually increasing the pressure, for 3-5 minutes each time.
Zhigou (TE6)
Zhigou is an acupoint on the Triple Energizer meridian of the hand shaoyang. It has the functions of dredging the Triple Energizer meridian, moistening the intestines, and regulating the fu organs. It is an effective acupoint for treating constipation.
Location: on the back of the forearm, 3 cun above the transverse wrist crease, in the middle of the gap between the ulna and radius.
Massage method: Use the tip of the thumb to press the acupoint vertically, gradually increasing the pressure until a sore sensation is felt. Massage for 3 minutes each morning and evening, alternating between the left and right hands.
Common Massage Methods for Promoting Bowel Movements
Treatment principle: Harmonize the intestines and promote bowel movements, regulate the qi mechanism.
Operational methods:
1. Massage Zhongwan, Tian Shu, and Da Heng acupoints for about 1 minute each.
Zhongwan: on the upper abdomen, on the midline, 4 cun above the navel, at the midpoint between the navel and the xiphoid process of the sternum.
Tian Shu: on the middle abdomen, 2 cun on each side of the navel.
Da Heng: on the middle abdomen, 4 cun away from the navel.
2. Use palm rubbing method to massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction for about 5 minutes.
3. Use thumbs to massage the bilateral acupoints of Gan Shu, Pi Shu, Shen Shu, and Da Chang Shu along the spine, back and forth, for about 5 minutes.
Gan Shu: on the back, 1.5 cun beside the lower border of the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra.
Pi Shu: on the back, 1.5 cun beside the lower border of the spinous process of the 11th thoracic vertebra.
Shen Shu: on the lower back, 1.5 cun beside the lower border of the spinous process of the 2nd lumbar vertebra.
Da Chang Shu: on the lower back, 1.5 cun beside the lower border of the spinous process of the 4th lumbar vertebra.
Massage Methods for Constipation with Different Patterns
Massage for Constipation due to Stomach and Intestines Dryness and Heat
1. Massage Qu Chi and Zhigou acupoints until a sour and distended sensation is felt.
Qu Chi: at the midpoint of the line connecting the outer side of the elbow crease and the outer superior condyle of the humerus.
Zhigou: 3 cun above the transverse wrist crease, on the radial side of the ulna, on the line connecting Yang Chi and the tip of the elbow.
2. Use the thumb to push downward from Zusanli to Xiaju Xu for 5 minutes.
Zusanli: 3 cun below the outer knee eye, 1 cun lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia.
Xiaju Xu: on the front outer side of the lower leg, 9 cun below the knee, 1 finger-width from the anterior crest of the tibia.
Massage for Constipation due to Stagnation of Qi
1. Massage Zhang Men, Fei Shu, Ge Shu, and Gan Shu acupoints until a sour and distended sensation is felt.
Zhang Men: below the free end of the 11th rib on the lateral side of the abdomen.
Fei Shu: below the spinous process of the 3rd thoracic vertebra on the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline.
Ge Shu: below the spinous process of the 7th thoracic vertebra on the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline.
Gan Shu: below the spinous process of the 9th thoracic vertebra on the back, 1.5 cun lateral to the midline.
2. Use horizontal rubbing method on the upper chest, with a focus on generating heat; use diagonal rubbing method on both sides of the ribs, with a focus on generating mild warmth.
Massage for Constipation due to Deficiency of Qi and Blood
1. Use horizontal rubbing method on the upper chest, with a focus on generating heat.
2. Massage Zusanli and Pi Shu acupoints for 2 minutes each, and perform spinal kneading three times.
Precautions for Bowel Movement Massage
1. For excess patterns, the massage should be stimulating and can be performed daily; for deficiency patterns, the technique should be gentle, and each treatment session should be longer with a longer course of treatment.
2. Develop a regular bowel movement habit. Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables regularly, while avoiding spicy foods.
3. Engage in outdoor activities more and avoid prolonged sitting. Perform squats, standing up, and lying down movements regularly.
