What are pressure points used for in a physical confrontation?

Pressure points are specific areas on the body where nerve endings are close to the skin or where muscles, tendons, and ligaments are more sensitive. When applying pressure to these points, an officer can create significant discomfort or pain, which can be an effective way to gain compliance from a subject during a physical confrontation. This method is notably used as a technique that relies on leverage and the understanding of anatomy, allowing an officer to control a situation without necessarily resorting to excessive force.

Utilizing pressure points is based on the principle that the sensation of pain can modify behavior, prompting compliance from an individual who may otherwise be resistant or combative. It provides a means to assert control while minimizing potential injury to both the officer and the subject, assuming that the technique is applied correctly and within the guidelines of appropriate use of force protocols.