When there is excessive dampness in the body, one may feel tired, heavy limbs, loss of appetite, cold hands and feet, and even symptoms of gastrointestinal inflammation. At this time, it is necessary to eliminate the dampness in a timely manner. The simplest method is to massage the Chengshan acupoint. So, what is the best time to massage Chengshan? What are its benefits?
The Best Time to Massage Chengshan
Chengshan is an acupoint located on the bladder meridian of the foot taiyang. The bladder meridian has the most vigorous circulation of qi and blood generally from 3 to 5 in the afternoon. Therefore, the best time to massage Chengshan is from 3 to 5 in the afternoon.
How to Locate Chengshan
Lie prone, Chengshan is located in the middle of the back of the lower leg, between the Weizhong acupoint and the Kunlun acupoint. When the lower leg or heel is lifted, the pointed and sunken area below the gastrocnemius muscle belly is the Chengshan acupoint.
The Benefits of Massage on Chengshan
Chengshan is located just below the calf muscle, which is divided into a "人" shape. This acupoint is in the middle of the "人" shape. In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen governs muscles and limbs. Therefore, Chengshan can be used to treat muscle problems.
For those who experience muscle cramps during exercise, massaging the gastrocnemius muscle, specifically the Chengshan acupoint in that area, until it feels warm and swollen, and then starting the exercise, can help prevent cramping.
Common Diseases Treated by Massage on Chengshan
1. Massage on the Chengshan acupoint can promote the transformation of water and dampness, stabilize the spleen, and treat calf muscle cramps, foot fatigue, knee fatigue, back pain, leg pain, constipation, prolapse, hemorrhoids, and other conditions. It is commonly used in modern times to treat sciatica, calf muscle cramps, hemorrhoids, and prolapse.
2. When standing on tiptoe, the center of gravity falls on the front two-thirds of the foot, and the force is applied to the outer side of the front legs and the calf. This stimulates the foot yangming stomach meridian, which has abundant qi and blood circulation, promoting smooth circulation of qi and blood in the body. The force on the calf is exerted on the Chengshan acupoint. Therefore, frequently standing on tiptoe not only prevents leg soreness and numbness but also prevents lower limb varicose veins.
Massage Techniques for Chengshan
1. Rotating pressure: Use the thumb or index finger to rotate and press the Chengshan acupoint vigorously for 1 minute, pause for 30 seconds, and then press for 1 minute. Repeat this process until there is a sense of soreness, numbness, and fullness in the area.
2. Acupressure: Use the thumb and index finger joints to press the Chengshan acupoint at a right angle for 2 minutes.
3. Point pressing: Apply strong pressure to the Chengshan acupoint, exerting as much force as possible, and hold it until the muscle spasm is relieved.
Precautions for Massage on Chengshan
The Chengshan acupoint may be very sore when pressed, so the massage technique must be gentle. It is advisable to feel a mild soreness and swelling, and gradually increase the pressure.
