The body contains over 400 pressure points commonly used in acupuncture and acupressure treatments in traditional Chinese medicine. Many of these are located near or on the spine, which may be pressed, massaged or otherwise manipulated to help relieve pain, open nerve pathways and otherwise restore balance, or chi, to the body, according to popular belief systems involved in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medical practices. Learn the locations of a few pressure points on the spine to help you achieve health and wellness.

Sea of Vitality
Also known as the Back Shu Point to the Kidney or Bladder 23, the Sea of Vitality pressure point is located around the lower spine at the second lumbar vertebrae. This pressure point is believed to help provide strength of the kidney, restoring proper balance of yin and yang. Manipulating this pressure point is also believed to help strengthen the core, the lower back and the knees, as well as reduce low back weakness, fatigue and pain.

Jumping Round
The Jumping Round pressure point is also called the Jumping Circle or Gallbladder 30. Located near the top of the buttocks slightly off to the side of the lumbar spine region where the lower back blends into the upper buttocks, this pressure point is believed to help relieve pain and stiffness caused by sciatica, according to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies. The pressure point may also help relieve pain caused by hip issues and rheumatism. When manipulated, this pressure point is also believed to help relax lower body muscle and increase mobility and function.

Celestial Gathering
Located just between the outer edge of the spinal process and near the inside edge of the shoulder blade, the Celestial Gathering pressure point is also called the Small Intestine 11 location. Pressure or massage at this point helps relieve tightness and soreness of the shoulders and back, and relieves numbness in the arms. The pressure point is also believed to help restore balance to the body.

Double Finger Press
Relieve back pain, tension and muscle stiffness caused by stress by manipulating the muscles that border each side of the spine along the length of the spinal column, suggests Press the Point. The first of these pressure points is found between the shoulder blades, about one inch to either side of the spine. Moving down to about elbow level, repeat the pressure firmly. Then move down to the base of the back, just before the rise of the buttocks, again placing two fingers, one on each side of the spine. Pressure here may cause a tingling sensation in the legs, as a large network of nerves are located there.