A Study on the Effectiveness of Acupressure in Promoting Overall Physical and Psychological Well-Being

Abstract

Physical and psychological well-being are interconnected dimensions of health that can be influenced by pain, sleep disturbance, stress, anxiety, fatigue, and chronic health conditions. Acupressure is a non-invasive complementary intervention involving manual stimulation of selected points and has been studied for a ra//nge of physical and psychological symptoms. This paper reviews the effectiveness of acupressure in promoting overall physical and psychological well-being, with attention to pain, sleep quality, anxiety, stress, fatigue, functional health, quality of life, and safety. Evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggests that acupressure may provide benefits across several symptom domains. Research has reported improvements in sleep quality, reductions in anxiety, and relief of selected pain and fatigue outcomes. A recent meta-analysis of 41 randomized trials involving 3,680 adult inpatients found significant improvements in sleep quality and several sleep parameters. A 2022 meta-analysis of 27 randomized trials also found that acupressure significantly reduced anxiety, although heterogeneity was very high. These findings indicate that acupressure may contribute to well-being through a combination of symptom relief, relaxation, and improved sleep. Nevertheless, the evidence is heterogeneous and does not establish acupressure as a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. It is best considered a complementary intervention within a broader, individualized approach to health and well-being.