Daily stress, muscular tension and illness create energetic imbalances that accumulate over time. Applying pressure to one of over 300 acupressure points can restore balance by improving the localized flow of blood and energy. This influx of circulation allows for nutrients to better reach and feed starved cells as well as increases the body’s efficacy of toxin removal. Additionally, studies show that stimulating specific pressure points reduces stress hormones and increases endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing chemicals.

The amount of pressure should make the point 'hurt good,' somewhere between pain and pleasure. Use prolonged finger pressure directly on the point – gradual, steady, penetrating pressure for approximately three minutes is ideal. Each point will feel somewhat different when pressed, with some feeling tense, while others feeling sore or achy. For best results, acupressure practitioners advocate relaxing and breathing deeply to further facilitate energy circulation.

Below are five pressure points deemed most useful for managing symptoms characteristic of HCV:

1. Nausea – Called Pericardium 6, this point is located on the forearm between the two main tendons, approximately one and a half to two inches above the wrist. This point is usually tender.
2. Fatigue – Called Stomach 36, this point is located on the outer part of the lower leg, in the tender area approximately one and a half to two inches below the knee, just one finger breadth to the outside of the bone. This point also strengthens the immune system.
3. Stress and liver-area pain – Called Liver 3, this point is located on the top of the foot, in the tender spot approximately one to one and a half inches above the toe web of the big toe and second toe.
4. Headaches – Called Large Intestine 4, this point is located on the top part of the hand, between the web of the thumb and index finger. Usually tender, Large Intestine 4 is at the highest point on the bulge formed when the thumb is next to the index finger.
5. Mental confusion and fatigue – Called Governing Vessel 20, this point is on the very top of the head. It is located at the intersection of the following two imaginary lines – (1) from the top point of the ear across to the top point of the other ear and (2) between the eyebrows back over the head to center of the spine.

Although the relief you are seeking may not be immediate, the daily, repeated application of pressure to a point over the course of a few weeks will often shift someone's physical discomfort. When applying pressure to a point, you may find it possible to gradually work up to holding points for longer periods of time. However, limit yourself to ten minutes per point to avoid the complications of increasing circulation too much. Additionally, a person who is pregnant or severely ill should consult with their doctor prior to adding anything new to their daily routine.