Shiatsu and Acupressure: Two Different and Distinct Techniques

Area of Science:

• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Integrative Health
• Manual Therapies

Background:

• Shiatsu has been taught in Japan since 1940, but research on its practice is limited.
• Researchers often substitute shiatsu with acupressure in studies due to a lack of shiatsu-specific evidence.
• Significant technical differences exist between shiatsu and acupressure, necessitating clear distinction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze technical differences between shiatsu and acupressure.
• To question the practice of using acupressure research as evidence for shiatsu efficacy.
• To advocate for distinct definitions and research methodologies for both techniques.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of references in a systematic review to gather protocol information.
• Exploration of shiatsu practitioners' perceptions of differences between shiatsu and acupressure.
• Utilized videos of techniques for practitioner commentary on perceived similarities.

Main Results:

• Identified key technical differences in pressure application, thumb positioning, and body weight utilization.
• Practitioners perceived distinct characteristics between shiatsu and acupressure.
• Current research practices may inaccurately represent shiatsu's efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Shiatsu and acupressure require separate research designs and definitions.
• Using acupressure studies as evidence for shiatsu is inappropriate and hinders understanding.
• Clear differentiation will facilitate a better understanding of the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of both therapies.