There are some commonly addressed points that  are typically tender for most people, such as the outer thigh, or just below the outer elbow crease (known in acupuncture as 'ache' points, or "ouchy", if you like).

To be quite honest, I have not yet found a clear explanation as to why these points are typically tender from a shiatsu perspective, except to say that if it is tender, then you've found the right spot! There is proabably a more logical explanation from a  western physiological perspective .. something to do with muscle tightness or trigger points.

In general, though, tenderness will usually signal to the practitioner a place of stagnation or deficiency, and an indication to use a dispersing or tonifying technique accordingly. This type of soreness should be held just below the pain threshold for the receiver... strong enough to facilitate an opening and release, but not so much to create tension and resistance. If the pain is too much, or is felt as radiating pain, the practitioner should be notified right away.

While shiatsu is intended to trigger the relaxation response overall, it can be of profound benefit to have one's comfort level challenged a bit.  Touching the tender spots (usually areas of deficiency) and gently stretching the boundaries of range of motion allows for greater circulation, movement, flexibility, and availability of response options overall.

Last updated on June 14, 2008 by Gina Loree' Marks