acupressure for cramps

Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for menstrual cramps, which most women have experienced at some point in their lives. The Journal of Chinese Medicine recently reported a study that compared acupressure at the Spleen 6 point with simple resting for women with cramps. They found that acupressure (whether in the form of a treatment or self-treatment) significantly reduced pain. (J Adv Nurs. 2004 Nov; 48(4):380-7).

Want to try? Locate the protruding bone at the inside of your ankle (your medial malleolus). The Spleen 6 point is 4 fingers' width above (from pinky to index finger) that ankle bone just against, but not on, the leg bone. It is usually sensitive when pressed. Massage deeply for a few minutes, 3x per day the day before cramps if possible, and during cramps. Let me know how it goes!