Hiccups 1

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Hiccups are for most people a minor annoyance while some go into major convulsions or into episodes that can last for days. They are caused by an irritation to the diaphragm; this results in the sudden, involuntary contractions of this muscle, (the main muscle responsible for your breathing). As the muscle repeatedly spasms and contracts, the spaces between your vocal cords also contract sharply to check the intake of air and generates the familiar sound (note the synergy and the affect on the throat).

Hiccups are due to an irritation of the nerves extending from the throat and neck to the chest, which cause this reaction. Some of the things that cause this irritation can be eating too quickly or too much, an irritation in the stomach or the throat, or getting agitated, nervous or excited. While most hiccups are not serious and have no clear reason for occurring, prolonged or serious bouts can be indicative of other more serious health issues (such as pneumonia or kidney failure).

The point designated LI-10, Lays on the outer side of the forearm between the Extensor Digitorum (muscle) and the Extensor Carpi Radialis Longus (muscle). It not only affects the arm muscles, but also the internal body structures and functions of the Diaphragm and Large Intestine via the Radial Nerve. We can use it for mild breathing problems like hiccups and if the diaphragm is spasmed due to attack or severe nervousness. You will need to get between the muscles of the forearm to access the Radial nerve. Using the tip of your thumb will enable you to penetrate between these muscles to the nerve itself. Massaging this point down toward the hand stimulates the phrenic nerve indirectly and as a consequence will relieve the diaphragm and it’s spasms.

Massaging the LI-10 also relieves the stress and tension that forces us to begin breathing shallow in the upper portions of the lungs. By bringing the breath back down into the lungs more it in turn opens up more circulation and oxygenation to the body and brain, releasing stress, tension and yielding clearer thought. Clear thought will help the body assimilate and control the issues so as to offset the stress or tension. As a side benefit this method can also relieve the “Stitch in the side” from over exertion as well. Some people may have difficulties with this on infants due to the nerves not being as developed and they are (in medical terms), wicked small. Or it may be that your fingers are way too big to get in between the muscles without causing the infant pain and more stress. General massage in the same manner will over a greater period of time will produce the same affect.

When stress is more prominent or well seated, manifestations and symptoms begin to well up in the chest, shoulders and begins to make the whole body hyper sensitive and agitated as all the nerves are now facilitated. These larger scale issues are anxiety, insomnia and skin irritation or rashes.

Layers

Skeletal

Vascular

Nerve

Muscle

Skin