Acupressure [from Latin acus "needle" (see acuity) + pressure (n.)] is an
alternative medicine technique similar in principle to
acupuncture. It is based on the concept of life energy which flows through "meridians" in the body. In treatment, physical pressure is applied to
acupuncture points with the aim of clearing blockages in these meridians. Pressure may be applied by hand, by elbow, or with various devices.