Acupressure to Address Hypertension Complaints

Hypertension remains a significant health problem experienced by many in Indonesian society. In addition to medical treatment, various non-pharmacological efforts can also help control blood pressure, including acupressure techniques. As an effort to increase community self-reliance in maintaining health, the DIII Nursing Programme of the Belitung Regency Campus of Poltekkes Kemenkes Pangkalpinang organised acupressure training for health cadres and residents of the Tanjung Tinggi Tourism Village, Belitung Regency. The activity was attended by 20 participants comprising health cadres and local community members. The training aimed to improve the community’s knowledge and skills in providing initial management of hypertension-related complaints through a complementary approach that is safe, simple, and easy to apply in daily life. With improved community knowledge and skills, it is hoped that hypertension prevention and control efforts can be carried out more independently at the family and community levels. Hypertension management requires efforts that focus not only on adopting a healthy lifestyle but also on utilising appropriate and evidence-based complementary therapies. The training was conducted through a combination of delivering material on hypertension, the use of medicinal plants, and the theory and direct practice of acupressure techniques. In the practical session, participants were introduced to several acupressure points commonly used as complementary therapy. The first point is Hegu (LI4), located between the thumb and index finger. This point is often used to help relieve headaches, tension, and discomfort in the body. The second point is Neiguan (PC6), located about three fingers above the inner wrist crease. Stimulation of this point is known to help provide a relaxation effect, reduce anxiety, and support smooth blood circulation. Next, participants learned the Taichong (LV3) point, located on the top of the foot, exactly between the big toe and the second toe. This point is widely used in acupressure practice to help reduce tension, increase comfort, and support blood pressure control efforts. Nevertheless, the implementing team emphasised that acupressure is a complementary therapy used to accompany a healthy lifestyle and treatment recommended by health professionals. Acupressure is not intended to replace medical therapy given to hypertension sufferers but as a supportive effort to improve comfort and quality of life.