How To Perform Acupressure for Vomiting and Nausea

Chemotherapy and radiation are successful in treating many types of cancer, but these treatments can also cause a host of side effects – including vomiting and nausea. A form of ancient Chinese therapy called acupressure, similar to acupuncture, has been shown to help alleviate these side effects. Learn how you can experience these benefits at home by massaging certain pressure points in your wrist.

Step 1

The pressure point P-6, or Neiguan, is located three fingers’ widths below your wrist crease. To find it, flatten your palm and place the first three fingers of your opposite hand across your wrist.

Step 2

Place your thumb on the point below your index fingers between two large tendons. Apply firm pressure and massage the point for two to three minutes. The massage should be firm, but not painful.

Learn more about integrative therapies like acupressure at the Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies.