Acupressure for obesity involves applying pressure to specific body points to potentially influence appetite and metabolism. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, this complementary therapy has gained interest as an adjunct to conventional weight management. Whilst some studies suggest modest short-term benefits when combined with diet and exercise, the evidence remains limited and of variable quality. In the UK, NICE does not recommend acupressure as part of standard obesity treatment pathways, which prioritise proven interventions including dietary modification, physical activity, behavioural support, and where appropriate, medication or surgery. This article examines the evidence, safety considerations, and realistic role of acupressure within comprehensive weight management programmes.

What Is Acupressure Treatment for Obesity?

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying physical pressure to specific points on the body, known as acupoints, to promote health and wellbeing. Unlike acupuncture, which uses fine needles, acupressure relies on finger pressure, massage, or specialised devices to stimulate these points. When applied for obesity management, practitioners target acupoints believed to influence appetite regulation, metabolism, and digestive function.

The theoretical basis for acupressure in obesity treatment stems from traditional Chinese medicine principles, which propose that stimulating certain meridian points can restore the flow of vital energy (qi) and address imbalances contributing to weight gain. Common acupoints used for obesity include those on the ear (auricular acupressure), abdomen, and limbs. Ear acupressure, in particular, has gained attention, with small seeds or beads often taped to specific auricular points that patients can press throughout the day.

In the UK, obesity is defined using body mass index (BMI) thresholds: a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above indicates obesity, whilst a BMI of 40 kg/m² or above indicates severe obesity. For adults of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean family background, a lower BMI threshold of 27.5 kg/m² is used to define increased risk, as recommended by NICE. Acupressure is considered a complementary therapy rather than a first-line treatment for obesity. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) does not recommend acupressure as part of standard obesity management pathways (NICE CG189), which prioritise evidence-based interventions including dietary modification, increased physical activity, behavioural support, and, where appropriate, pharmacological or surgical interventions. However, some individuals explore acupressure as an adjunct to conventional weight management strategies, seeking potential benefits for appetite control or stress reduction that may indirectly support their weight loss efforts. It is important to have realistic expectations—acupressure should only be used alongside, not instead of, proven lifestyle and medical interventions.

Evidence and Effectiveness for Obesity Treatment

The scientific evidence supporting acupressure for obesity treatment remains limited and of variable quality. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have examined this intervention, with mixed findings. Some studies suggest modest reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), or waist circumference when acupressure is combined with conventional weight management approaches, whilst others show no significant benefit beyond placebo effects.

A key challenge in evaluating acupressure effectiveness is the heterogeneity of research methodologies. Studies vary considerably in terms of acupoint selection, pressure duration and frequency, treatment duration (ranging from weeks to months), and whether acupressure is used alone or alongside dietary and exercise interventions. Many trials suffer from small sample sizes, inadequate blinding, lack of appropriate sham controls, and short follow-up periods, making it difficult to draw robust conclusions about long-term efficacy. Overall, the certainty of evidence is low to very low.

Current evidence suggests:

• Auricular acupressure may produce small, short-term reductions in body weight in some studies (typically 1–2 kg over several weeks), though effect sizes are modest, confidence intervals often wide, and heterogeneity high

• Effects appear most pronounced when combined with calorie restriction and physical activity

• There is insufficient evidence to determine optimal treatment protocols or which patients might benefit most

• Long-term weight maintenance data are lacking, and it is unclear whether any short-term changes are clinically meaningful or sustained

The mechanisms by which acupressure might influence weight are not fully understood and remain largely hypothetical. Proposed pathways include modulation of appetite-regulating hormones (such as ghrelin and leptin), reduction of stress-related eating, and improved gastrointestinal motility. However, these mechanisms have not been robustly demonstrated in high-quality human trials and require further investigation. Patients considering acupressure should be aware that whilst some individuals report subjective benefits, there is no established link between acupressure and clinically significant, sustained weight loss. Standard evidence-based obesity interventions—including structured diet, physical activity, and behavioural support programmes, and where appropriate, pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery—remain the cornerstone of effective weight management in the UK.

Safety Considerations and When to Seek Medical Advice

Acupressure is generally considered a low-risk intervention when performed correctly, with minimal adverse effects reported in clinical studies. Unlike invasive procedures, it does not involve breaking the skin, which substantially reduces infection risk. Most people tolerate acupressure well, experiencing at most mild, temporary discomfort at pressure points or minor bruising if excessive force is applied.

Potential risks and contraindications include:

• Skin irritation or allergic reactions to adhesive materials used in auricular acupressure

• Discomfort or pain if excessive pressure is applied

• Uncertainty regarding safety during pregnancy—certain acupoints (such as LI4 and SP6) are traditionally avoided before term, though evidence is limited; pregnant individuals should seek professional advice and avoid self-treatment without guidance

• Caution advised for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications, and for those with skin conditions affecting treatment areas

Acupressure should never replace evidence-based medical treatment for obesity or related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Symptoms suggesting underlying medical conditions (fatigue, increased thirst, changes in appetite, palpitations)

• Adverse reactions to acupressure treatment

• Difficulty achieving weight loss despite lifestyle modifications

• Signs of disordered eating, such as binge eating, purging, severe dietary restriction, or loss of menstrual periods

It is essential to approach obesity management holistically. The NHS recommends that adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above (or 27.5 kg/m² or above for people of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean family background) should be offered evidence-based weight management support. This typically includes referral to specialist weight management services (Tier 3), dietetic input, and structured exercise programmes. For individuals with a BMI of 40 kg/m² or above, or 35 kg/m² or above with significant obesity-related comorbidities (such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure), referral for assessment for bariatric surgery may be appropriate, in line with NICE guidance (NICE CG189). Acupressure, if used, should complement rather than substitute these proven interventions.

If you experience any suspected side effects related to medicines or medical devices, you can report them via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or by searching for 'MHRA Yellow Card' in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

How Acupressure May Support Weight Management

Whilst acupressure should not be viewed as a standalone obesity treatment, some individuals find it a useful adjunct within a comprehensive weight management programme. The potential supportive mechanisms extend beyond direct metabolic effects to include psychological and behavioural dimensions that influence eating patterns and lifestyle choices. It is important to note that these proposed benefits are largely hypothetical, with limited and variable supporting evidence.

Appetite regulation represents one proposed benefit. Some research suggests that stimulating specific acupoints, particularly on the ear, may help reduce subjective feelings of hunger and food cravings. This could theoretically support adherence to calorie-controlled diets, though individual responses vary considerably. Patients using auricular acupressure often press the seeds or beads when experiencing cravings, which may serve as both a physical intervention and a mindful pause before eating.

Stress reduction may constitute an important indirect pathway. Chronic stress is associated with elevated cortisol levels, which can promote abdominal fat deposition and emotional eating. Acupressure sessions may promote relaxation and reduce perceived stress, potentially helping individuals manage stress-related eating behaviours. The ritualistic, self-care aspect of regular acupressure practice might also enhance overall wellbeing and motivation for lifestyle change.

Digestive function is another area where acupressure may offer support. Traditional Chinese medicine theory suggests certain acupoints influence gastrointestinal motility and function. Whilst robust evidence is limited, some individuals report improved digestion and reduced bloating, which may enhance comfort during dietary modification.

For those interested in exploring acupressure, it is advisable to seek treatment from qualified practitioners. Acupressure is not statutorily regulated in the UK, but you can choose practitioners registered with Professional Standards Authority (PSA)-accredited registers, such as the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) for acupuncture or the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) for relevant complementary therapies. Check that your practitioner has appropriate training, professional indemnity insurance, and experience in the technique. Self-administered auricular acupressure can be learned relatively easily, though initial guidance from an experienced practitioner ensures correct point location and appropriate pressure application. If self-treating, avoid broken skin, monitor for irritation or allergy to adhesives, and stop if you experience pain or adverse effects.

Realistic expectations are crucial—acupressure is unlikely to produce dramatic weight loss independently but may provide modest support when integrated into evidence-based lifestyle interventions including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions