Relief Bands for Sea Sickness
Acupressure, or acustimulation, for the relief of motion sickness is an ancient Chinese technique originating with acupuncture. The P6/Neiguan is a pressure point on the inner wrist that has been shown effective in lessening the symptoms associated with seasickness, especially nausea. There is no guarantee that branded or home-made wrist bands will work for you, but this noninvasive method offers hope for a drug-free way to mitigate the effects of motion sickness.
Find the Right Band
Research the various brands available. The Canadian Journal of Anesthesia reported success in Dr. Aidah Alkaissi's 2005 study using acupressure to relieve motion sickness in women. Amy Wesley's 2002 study published the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Proceedings found SeaBands® effective in older citizens. The Aerospace Medical Association's 2004 study performed by Kristen Miller and Eric Muth, however, found the Acuband™ and the ReliefBand® to be ineffective against nausea whether or not the band was used correctly or incorrectly. While these studies have demonstrated varying effects for different participants, many people of all ages and genders have reported successful motion sickness treatment from even the simplest acupressure bands.
Start with a nearby pharmacy or travel-supply store and compare what you find in person to similar products offered by the various online retailers. Look for elastic bands that fit snugly on your wrist with a small, hard button on the inside. Many brands have comfortable covers that come in various colors. Avoid scams that charge more than 10 dollars for a single bracelet. Position the button on each band over the correct pressure point on your wrist. Find this point by making a fist so that the two tendons on the underside of your wrist pop up. Measure three finger-widths away from your palm, and position the button directly between the two tendons.
Make Your Own
Making your own bands is a simple and inexpensive way to find out if this method works for you. You will need a pack of ¾-inch-wide elastic bands, small Velcro strips or adhesive squares and one small, round button. Soft, cloth-covered elastic bands are available at most craft-supply stores. Measure and cut out the correct amount of elastic band to fit your wrist snugly without impeding circulation. Sew the Velcro strips to each end, or use the self-adhesive kind, so you can easily take the bracelet on and off. Make sure the Velcro strips are cut small enough to fit comfortably and large enough to keep the bracelet secure. Sew the button on the inside, directly in the center of the band. Find the pressure point and make sure that your creation applies ample pressure without discomfort.
