Mild Pseudoscience: Consists of statements, beliefs, or practices that are claimed to be both scientific and factual but are incompatible with the scientific method (unproven, not testable, or opposed to the consensus of traditional science). Mild Pseudoscience is considered safe and may have some benefits unrelated to larger misleading claims.

Acupressure

Definition: The application of pressure rather than needles on specific points on the body to control symptoms such as pain or nausea. Acupressure is often thought of as simply acupuncture without the needles. Acupressure practitioners use their fingers, palms, elbows or feet, or special devices to apply pressure to acupoints on the body’s meridians.

Reasoning: Like many alternative medicines, it may benefit from a placebo effect, and it may reduce muscle tension; however, there isn’t evidence of the existence of body meridians. Trials using a placebo have not demonstrated any statistically significant effect but concluded that acupressure is safe to use along with conventional treatment.  Quackwatch says acupressure is a dubious practice, and its practitioners use irrational methods.

More Information

• Quackademic medicine and acupressure at my alma mater
• Acupressure Points and Massage Treatment
• The Efficacy of Acupressure for Symptom Management: A Systematic Review

Conclusion: Acupressure is a mild pseudoscience as it is considered safe and potentially effective in reducing muscle tension; however, placebo studies have shown little benefit for larger claims such as controlling motion sickness and nausea.