Therapeutic Indications of Shiatsu
Shiatsu is recognized for its beneficial effects on a wide spectrum of functional disorders. Stress and anxiety, musculoskeletal pain, digestive issues, insomnia, headaches, chronic fatigue, menstrual disorders: finger pressure along meridians stimulates the body's natural self-regulation mechanisms. Recent clinical studies confirm its value for stress, pain and cancer-related fatigue management. This article presents main indications, contraindications and current scientific research.
Stress, Anxiety and Emotional Disorders
The most frequent shiatsu indication. Deep, rhythmic pressures activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol. A 2016 study showed significant anxiety reduction and quality-of-life improvement with regular shiatsu over eight weeks.
Musculoskeletal Pain
Effective for cervical pain, low back pain, shoulder tension, sciatica and joint pain. Pressures trigger endorphin release, relax contracted muscles and improve local circulation.
Digestive Disorders
Constipation, bloating, IBS, nausea: meridian work combined with abdominal massage stimulates peristalsis and regulates digestive functions.
Sleep Disorders
The deeply relaxing effect promotes sleep onset and quality. Specific points (Shenmen HT7, Anmian, Sanyinjiao SP6) calm the mind.
Headaches and Migraines
Shiatsu relieves tension headaches and migraines through work on Gallbladder, Liver and Bladder meridians plus skull, neck and shoulder pressure.
Women's Health
Support for menstrual disorders, pregnancy (nausea, back pain, birth preparation) and menopause (hot flushes, insomnia, mood swings).
Oncology Support
Studies show shiatsu significantly improves cancer patients' quality of life by reducing fatigue, anxiety, nausea and treatment-related pain.
Contraindications
- Absolute: high fever, acute infection, acute phlebitis, recent fracture, internal haemorrhage.
- Relative: pregnancy (adapted), severe osteoporosis, cancer (tumour zones avoided), recent surgery.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes. Shiatsu does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.