24/04/2026
# # **Acupressure: From Ancient Ayurvedic Heritage to Modern Integrative Medicine**
**Author: Dr. Khaira**
Acupressure is a simple, effective, and side-effect-free method of restoring energy balance by applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers or the palm. Its roots lie in **7,000-year-old Ayurveda**, where it was known as **Marma Chikitsa**. This knowledge later traveled to China and Japan, evolving into **Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)**, **Shiatsu**, and **Japanese Medical Manual Therapy (JMMT)**. Today, it has become a vital component of complementary and alternative medicine.
Ancient Ayurvedic **Atharvaveda**, **Sushruta Samhita**, and **Charaka Samhita** — provide detailed descriptions of **107 Marma points**. These are vital points where veins, arteries, muscles, and ligaments converge. In ancient times, knowledge of these points was used to protect warriors from injuries during war; later, it was adapted for treating diseases.
This wisdom eventually reached China, where the meridian system and acupoints were systematically developed. Japan further refined these techniques. **Sugiyama Waichi**, a legendary visually impaired acupuncturist, revolutionized Japanese acupressure. Today, in Japan, visually impaired individuals are considered experts in acupressure and manual therapy because their sense of touch is highly heightened. Specialized training is provided at institutions like Tsukuba University (Tokyo) and the Kobe City School for the Visually Impaired.
# # # **Scientific Basis and Medical Role**
Modern research provides the strongest evidence for acupressure in treating **chemotherapy-induced, pregnancy-related, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)**. The use of wristbands on the **PC6 (Neiguan)** point is included in clinical guidelines in several countries. Research shows that PC6 acupressure reduces the severity of nausea, decreases vomiting episodes, and lessens the requirement for antiemetic drugs.
It is also effective for internal ailments; significant results have been observed in treating back pain, headaches, labor pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Acupressure rapidly influences **hormonal balance**, helping regulate hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol—particularly in cases of PCOS, menopause, and stress-related issues. By triggering the release of **endorphins**, it provides natural pain relief and relaxation. Its lack of side effects makes it a safe therapeutic choice.
# # # **The Role of the Visually Impaired**
The visually impaired possess an exceptionally developed sense of touch, allowing them to identify and manipulate acupressure points with superior precision. This has been a tradition in Japan for centuries. In India, JMMT has been introduced with a similar vision — to provide the visually impaired with sustainable employment and a dignified place in society.
# # # **Current Status and Training in India**
JMMT is expanding rapidly across India. At the **Dr. Khaira Health Care Centre, Dehradun**, Japanese Medical Manual Therapy is integrated with acupressure, acupuncture, moxa therapy, cupping, and physiotherapy as a "Combination Therapy." JMMT is also taught and practiced at the **National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD), Dehradun**. Similarly, the **Blind People’s Association (BPA) Physiotherapy College in Ahmedabad**, Gujarat, offers this course. Training and treatment are also available in cities like Delhi and Pune, with support from Tokyo-based experts like Saburo Sasada and Nyushi Terasaki.
# # # **Dr. Khaira’s Contribution**
**Dr. Khaira** is a leading expert in Japanese Medical Manual Therapy in India. Having completed his Masters in JMMT from Tsukuba University, Tokyo, his mission is to empower visually impaired individuals by training them in acupressure, acupuncture, moxa, and manual therapy. His goal is to transform them into skilled therapists, enabling them to achieve social equality, gainful employment, and use their gifted sense of touch to alleviate human suffering.
# # # **Conclusion**
Acupressure is a gift from Ayurveda that has been refined through the traditions of China and Japan and is now finding a new identity in India. Its scientific validation, hormonal impact, and zero side effects make it an essential part of modern healthcare. For the visually impaired, it represents a golden opportunity — their touch can heal pain while fostering their own self-reliance. Integrating this with formal medical practice, supported by proper training, can immensely benefit patient care globally.
**Dr. Khaira**
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