Everyone has had a headache at some point in their life, but not everyone suffers from chronic headaches like migraines or cluster headaches. For those who do suffer from these debilitating headaches, the search for relief is a constant quest. Headaches can occur without warning, and the pain can be severe, requiring the sufferer to retreat to a dark room and sleep, as in the case of migraine headaches. Read on to learn how pressure points may help relieve your headache pain!
ACUPRESSURE TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC DAILY HEADACHES
If you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines and have tried other therapies without success, it might be time to try something different. Although an alternative therapy, acupressure uses pressure points along the body to relieve pain and can help alleviate some pain for many headache sufferers.
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine that is believed to work by balancing the body’s energy flow, while pressure points may be capable of stimulating optimal circulation to specific zones of the body. Non-invasive, natural, and often reported to be highly effective, engaging with pressure points to relieve headaches may be worth trying for yourself.
Pressure Points for Headaches
There are many pressure points throughout the body that are beneficial for a variety of ailments, some of which are better for headaches than others. Those in the facial area seem to be particularly useful headache remedy pressure points, though there are others in varying regions of the body that can also provide results for many headache sufferers.
Depending on the headache pressure point you’re working with, you may be able to achieve relief from:
- Sinus headache or pressure
- Migraines
- Tooth pain
- Cluster headaches
- Tension headaches
- Union Valley Pressure Point
The fatty tissue between the thumb and index finger is the location of the Union Valley pressure point. Pressing on this area with the thumb and index finger of the opposite hand can help alleviate headache pain. This pressure point can also help with other pain including toothaches, neck pain, and arthritis.
It should be noted that pregnant women should avoid this pressure point because it is thought to induce contractions.
Facial Beauty Pressure Point
For relieving sinus pressure, pressure points such as the facial beauty pressure point can prove highly effective. With the potential to reduce congestions, pressure in the sinuses, and even toothache pain, the facial beauty pressure point is a popular starting point.
First, place each of your index fingers near your nostrils. Gently pushing in, trace a path down underneath your cheekbones. Once your fingers are resting on the base of your cheekbones, either maintain pressure or softly massage the area for additional relief.
The Third Eye Pressure Point
The midpoint between the eyebrows is the third eye pressure point and is well-known for its ability to help alleviate headache pain. It can also help reduce tension in your head, face, and eyes. To activate this spot, simply press the area with your finger and apply pressure, holding it for several minutes. Doing this several times a week can help alleviate chronic headache pain as well as sinus problems. Some experts believe that the third eye pressure point can also help boost melatonin production, thus providing additional benefits even beyond headache relief.
Bright Light Pressure Point
The bright lights pressure point is thought to have a positive effect on tension and pain around the eyes, specifically discomfort resulting from the eye strain sometimes produced by electronic use. Just below the third eye on either side of the bridge of the nose, below the tip of each eyebrow, is the bright light pressure point.
Also beneficial for those with sinus congestion, the bright light pressure point relieves tension. Simply hold the spot with your finger for about one minute and release. This pressure point to stop headaches can also support recovery from headaches caused by allergies.
Gates of Consciousness Pressure Point
When you’re trying to figure out how to get rid of a headache, pressure points provide a variety of methods for relief. Headaches that are possible stress-related may be resolved by stimulated the gates of consciousness pressure point. Located behind the head, this pressure point can specifically help treat headaches stemming from the back of the neck and head.
Place both of your hands behind your head, cradling it gently while pointing your thumbs in a downward direction. Then, using your thumbs, add pressure to both side of the base of your skull. Massage the area with soft, circular motions to loosen tension.
Wind Mansion Pressure Point
Tucked in the hollow at the base of your skill, the wind mansion pressure point can help combat stress headaches, as well as reduce feelings of anxiety. Holding the back of your head with one hand, position your palm so that your thumb is pointing downwards. Press your thumb into the hollow at the skull’s base, then hold pressure.
Welcome Fragrance Pressure Point
Another spot that is good for both sinus congestion and headaches, the welcome fragrance pressure point is easy to remember. It’s just to the side of each nostril, hence the name. Apply pressure to these points for up to one minute and release. Repeat several times a week or whenever you have a headache.
Neck Pressure Points
The neck pressure points are located on the back of the neck, halfway down between the ear and the shoulders. These pressure points are most effective in people with headaches that are caused by neck problems or neck pain. Putting pressure on these spots for several minutes can help alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders.
The heaven’s pillar pressure points are located about half an inch below the previous point and are also beneficial for alleviating both neck and headache pain. To activate this point, tilt your head back and rub the points in a circular motion for several minutes.
Feet Pressure Points
The feet are the last place you may think of to alleviate headache pain, but the feet have several pressure points that can help alleviate tension. However, just on top of the foot in between the big toe and second toe is a spot about half an inch down that can help alleviate headaches when pressure is applied. To activate this pressure point, massage the area and then apply pressure to the point for five minutes at a time.
Another point on the feet that can help relieve headaches is located in the gap between the fourth and fifth toe. Putting pressure on this spot for a few minutes can help alleviate tension and stress.
TIPS FOR ACUPRESSURE
If you are pregnant, have heart problems, or heart disease, you should avoid acupressure. You should also wait to perform acupressure for at least 20 minutes after exercising, eating a large meal, or taking a bath or shower.
Severe migraines should be evaluated at a migraine clinic with a headache specialist before attempting acupressure. In fact, if you have any of the following types of headaches, you should not perform acupressure:
- A severe headache with sudden onset
- A headache associated with nausea and vomiting, fever, dizziness, or diarrhea
- A headache that causes blurred vision or other visual disturbances
If you suffer from headaches like these, a headache treatment clinic can help you get the relief you need. Depending on your specific triggers, headache experts can help you devise a tailored treatment plan, including all-natural remedies such as pressure points for headache relief.
The National Headache Institute offers state-of-the-art treatment using cutting-edge technology like stem cell treatment, as well as many non-invasive methods to finally help you achieve freedom from headache pain. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations.
Featured image: metamorworks, shutterstock
