Acupressure, an alternative healing technique that involves pressing on particular points on the body, may be able to help individuals with mild brain trauma improve their neural function, according to research performed by neuroscientists at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

In a study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma, the team stated that a specific form of acupressure called Jin Shin appears to increase memory in patients with non-life-threatening brain injuries.

To test the efficacy of acupressure, scientists divided participants into two groups, one of which received traditional Jin Shin as it has been practiced since the 1970s. The other group also received what appeared to be acupressure, though it did not focus on any of the accepted pressure points.

Those who received Jin Shin tended to be able to repeat back longer strings of random numbers, as well as to be able to perform well on a standardized psychological test, compared to their peers.

Researchers concluded that acupressure may be a viable treatment option for veterans returning from combat, should they have mild brain trauma.

Numerous studies have already shown that acupressure can be an effective treatment for nausea and morning sickness.