Dermatitis and other associated skin conditions are often treated with acupuncture and/or herbal medicine with good success. Researchers from the department of dermatology at Northwestern University in Chicago recently conducted a study evaluating a simply acupressure point to help eliminate itching (pruritus) and skin changes (lichenification) from atopic dermatitis.
Within this study, 15 patients (12 finished) were randomized into a treatment group (acupressure with standard care) and others into a control group (standard care alone). The acupressure group performed acupressure using a 1.2mm acupellet at the acupuncture point LI 11. The point was stimulated for 3 minutes, 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Itching and skin changes were evaluated using standard scales and visual observation.
Researchers found significant changes in the acupressure group with regards to skin changes and itching. Larger studies are warranted as are evaluations of the use of acupellets vs. simply stimulating the point with your fingers.
As a home treatment in conjunction with proper Chinese Medicine treatment from a fully trained professional, acupressure should be recommended to atopic dermatitis patients.