Neck Pressure Points

While the back of the neck offers no decent neck pressure points- contrary to many movies where a quick karate chop back there will bring an adversary down. This is not an appropriate target for self defense.

The side of the neck offers a much better target. The carotid artery and the jugular vein are both located here with no bony protection. It would be difficult to inflict too much permanent damage here, unlike the front of the neck.

A knife hand strike delivered to either side if the neck would result in pain, possibly temporary stunning (the desired effect). If sufficient force were delivered it would be possible to cause injury.

If continuous pressure were applied, say with a choke hold or a bar hold, it would render the attacker unconscious. This of course is not a practical self defense method for the lay person.

Up under the jaw, if poked with finger tips or extended knuckle can result in considerable pain. This area could be better utilized, if close in, with a strike with one or both of your palm heels upward. This technique can by used standing or seated if the attacker is trying to or has grabbed you with you facing them.

Deliver this technique quickly and with as much force as you can and they will be thrown off balance. It could potentially render him unconscious (this is a boxer’s classic knock out blow).

In the hollow of the throat the windpipe (trachea) is most exposed. Even slight pressure here can cause distress. A forceful blow could potentially cause injury.

Pushing the thumb or two fingers here would be painful. A forceful blow or vigorous jabbing could cause injury and would only be justified if great bodily harm were threatened.

The Adam’s apple is another of the neck pressure points. If grabbed from behind a rear swinging elbow strike to the Adam’s apple would probably gain your freedom. It would also probably cause choking and/or injury to the attacker.

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