Relieving migraines with acupressure: these points really help
Did you know that in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) there are around 400 pressure points on the body that are specifically located on the meridians? Acupressure, a pressure massage technique originating from TCM, can be used to stimulate these points in order to treat migraine symptoms. Although there are currently no scientifically controlled studies that clearly prove the effectiveness of acupressure, many migraine patients report positive experiences due to the natural relief of their symptoms without medication.
Acupressure is a safe and natural method of relieving headaches and promoting general well-being. By pressing specific points on the temples, corners of the eyes, bridge of the nose and ear area, the flow of energy in the body can be improved and muscle tension released. It is important to know the right technique and the correct points in order to carry out effective self-treatment.
The use of acupressure is particularly useful for integrating natural migraine treatment into everyday life. While acupressure is safe for most people, those with severe heart disease or circulatory problems, as well as skin problems at the pressure points, should avoid it. In addition, certain acupressure points should not be stimulated during pregnancy.
Important points:
- Acupressure can be used for natural migraine treatment.
- There are around 400 pressure points in traditional Chinese medicine.
- Targeted stimulation can improve the flow of energy and release tension.
- Acupressure is not suitable for people with serious heart conditions and certain skin problems.
- It is important to use the correct technique for effective relief.
What is acupressure?
Acupressure is a traditional Chinese healing method that optimizes the flow of energy in the body through pressure point stimulation. This method is based on the assumption that the human body has meridians along which vital energy flows. Targeted stimulation of these points is intended to alleviate pain and stimulate healing processes.
History and origin
The history of acupressure stretches back several thousand years and has its origins in traditional Chinese medicine. Even in ancient China, acupressure was used as an effective method to relieve migraines and treat other ailments. The tradition of acupressure has been passed down through generations and has become an integral part of many healing practices to this day.
The theory behind acupressure
The theory of acupressure is closely linked to the concept of Qi (vital energy). Qi flows through meridians in the body, and blockages in this energy flow can lead to pain and illness. Acupressure techniques for migraines aim to release these blockages by applying targeted pressure to specific points. Studies show that over 80% of migraine sufferers who experience severe nausea benefit significantly from acupressure.
A user study shows just how successful acupressure can be in relieving migraines: 41 patients who had suffered from migraines for an average of 26 years reported a significant reduction in nausea after using an acupressure band. 34 of the participating patients stated that the severity of their nausea decreased from 6.2 to 2.9 on a scale of ten, and the improvement in symptoms occurred after an average of 28.7 minutes. These results underline the potential effectiveness of acupressure techniques for migraine and offer patients a complementary method of pain relief.
How does acupressure work for headaches?
Acupressure is an ancient healing technique that aims to regulate the flow of energy (Qi) in the body and promote blood circulation. Tension and poor circulation are common causes of headaches, especially tension headaches and migraines. Targeted stimulation of acupressure points for migraines can effectively alleviate these symptoms.
Energy flow and Qi
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the flow of energy, known as Qi, plays a central role. Blockages in the flow of Qi can lead to various physical complaints, including headaches. Acupressure aims to release these blockages and harmonize the flow of Qi. By applying pressure to certain pressure points for migraines, such as the LI4 point (He Gu), endorphins are released, providing natural pain relief and releasing muscular tension.
Trigger and treatment of tension
Tension headaches are often caused by muscular tension in the neck and shoulder area. Acupressure can help to relieve this tension and improve circulation. The GB20 point (Feng Chi), for example, is known to relieve tension in the neck. Another effective point is the EX-HN5 point (Taiyang), which is used specifically for tension headaches and migraines.
Regular use of acupressure can reduce the intensity and frequency of tension headaches and migraine attacks. When treating yourself with acupressure, it is important to know the correct pressure points for migraines and to massage them correctly.
Important acupressure points for migraines
Certain acupressure points are particularly helpful for relieving migraines through self-massage for migraines. Each point has its own specific effects and contributes to pain relief. Here are some of the most important pressure points for migraines and their effects.
LI4 (He Gu)
The pressure point LI4, or He Gu, is located in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger. This point is known to relieve pain and harmonize the energy flows in the body. Massage this point on both hands for about a minute to get the best results.
GB20 (Feng Chi)
GB20 or Feng Chi is located in the hollows at the base of the skull, about two finger widths from the midline. Stimulating this point helps to relax the neck and shoulder muscles and can therefore relieve tension headaches and migraines. Gentle pressure for about a minute can often bring immediate relaxation.
EX-HN5 (Taiyang)
The EX-HN5 point, better known as Taiyang, is located in the temples, about a thumb’s width behind the corners of the eyes. Massaging this point can be particularly helpful for tension headaches and migraines. A circular massage for 30 seconds can provide significant pain relief.
ST36 (Zusanli)
ST36, or Zusanli, is a widely used acupressure point located about four finger widths below the kneecap on the outside of the leg. Activating this point helps to strengthen the body’s general energy and can also be helpful for migraines. Massaging this point for one to two minutes can be beneficial.
LV3 (Tai Chong)
LV3, or Tai Chong, is located on the back of the foot, about 1-2 finger widths above the gap between the big toe and the second toe. This pressure point harmonizes the flow of energy in the body and helps to relieve stress-induced headaches. A gentle massage for 30 seconds to a minute on both feet can have a very relaxing effect.
Self-massage techniques for migraines
Self-massage is a practical method for migraine relief. These techniques involve rubbing, pressing and circling over specific acupressure points to provide instant relaxation and pain relief. It is an inexpensive and easy-to-learn method that can be used anywhere. It is important that you use these techniques regularly and specifically to achieve the best results.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identifies various pathogenic factors such as wind and heat that can lead to headaches. Self-massage for migraines focuses on harmonizing the energy flow and calming the liver yang.
Natural migraine treatment through acupressure can provide amazing results. Consider the following acupressure points that are effective for self-massage:
- Liver 3: Calms the liver with ascending liver yang, particularly effective for pain in the parietal region.
- San Jiao 5: Soothes pain in the temple area.
- Gallbladder 21: Relaxes the neck.
- Stomach 8: Relief for headaches and migraines with nausea.
- Large intestine 4: Pain-relieving for all types of pain.
- Spleen 6: Harmonizes the spleen and supports the transformation of phlegm, especially in cases of heaviness in the head.
- Extra point Yu Yao: Relieves pain behind the eyes.
The recommended frequency of acupressure stimulation varies. For acute complaints it can be performed as needed, while for chronic complaints 1-3 times a day is recommended. These self-massage techniques are an effective natural migraine treatment.
| Pain area | Acupressure point | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Apex | Liver 3 | Calms the liver with ascending liver yang |
| Temple area | San Jiao 5 | Pain-relieving in the temple area |
| Neck | Gallbladder 21 | Relaxes the neck |
| Forehead | Stomach 8 | Relief for headaches and migraines with nausea |
| Forehead | Large intestine 4 | Pain-relieving for all types of pain |
| Feeling of heaviness in the head | Spleen 6 | Harmonizes the spleen and supports the transformation of mucus |
| Behind the eyes | Extra point Yu Yao | Relieves pain in the eye area |
Remember that self-massage for migraines should be carried out on very sensitive points with light pressure for about 30 seconds. For less sensitive points, massage can be done more intensely for 20-30 seconds. The frequency of self-massage can be increased several times a day as required to achieve the best results.
Relieve migraines with acupressure
Migraines can be one of the most distressing types of headaches. Fortunately, acupressure techniques for migraines offer helpful approaches to pain relief. Targeted pressure point stimulation can often reduce migraine symptoms quickly and efficiently.
Pressure point stimulation and effect
Pressure point stimulation aims to promote the release of endorphins and improve blood circulation by applying targeted pressure to specific points on the body. Two important points used for migraine treatment are LI4 and GB20. LI4, located between the thumb and index finger, is often used to relieve tension headaches and migraines. GB20, at the base of the skull, can help relieve pain by reducing tension in the neck and shoulder area.
Emergency measures
The following acupressure points provide quick relief for acute migraine attacks:
- Ma8: On the temple; massage for 30 seconds.
- Bl2: 1.5 finger widths from the root of the nose; massage for about 30 seconds.
- GB8: Three finger widths above the ear; apply pressure for 30 seconds to one minute.
- 3E23: At the temples; gentle, circular pressure.
- Tong Zi Lao (Gb1): One thumb width behind the outer corner of the eye; can help to release tension.
- Shang Guan (Gb3): Directly over the temporomandibular joint; massage for one to two minutes on both sides.
In addition to acupressure, herbal teas such as ginkgo, oregano, lemon balm, lime blossom or rosemary can also have a calming and soothing effect. Cold or warm compresses can also work well to relieve tension in the head area. Some patients have shown that a six-week course of acupuncture treatment reduces migraine days by around 2.7 to 3.4 days in the first four weeks.
Incidentally, experts recommend refreshing acupuncture therapy after three months, although three to four sessions are usually sufficient. With such techniques, you can effectively relieve your migraines with acupressure and thus improve your quality of life.
Use of acupressure mats for migraines
Acupressure mats offer an innovative and effective method of relieving migraines and headaches. The mats mimic traditional acupressure and allow multiple pressure points to be stimulated simultaneously, benefiting acupressure for headaches.
Advantages of acupressure mats
Regular use of an acupressure mat can have many benefits. Acupressure mats promote blood circulation and relaxation, especially in the neck and back area, which helps to relieve the pain of migraines. For tension headaches caused by stress, sleep disorders or eye strain, the mat helps to relieve tension. Studies show that 96% of subjects using acupressure for headaches reported positive effects.
- Contains 9,100 hypoallergenic tips
- Dimensions: 111 × 78 × 2 cm
- 100-day money-back guarantee
Tips for use
To get the most out of your acupressure mat, you should spend time on the mat regularly. Ideally, you should lie on the mat once a day for at least 15 minutes. This can not only relieve migraines, but also reduce general stress. Entry-level models offer between 6,000 and 10,000 plastic needles, while mats with around 4,000 needles exert a gentler pressure. Note, however, that intense pressure points and reddening of the skin are common reactions to using the mats.
Please consult your doctor before using the acupressure mat, especially if you suffer from epilepsy, blood clotting disorders, skin inflammation or are pregnant. Daily use of the acupressure mat can help to relieve migraines and headaches in the long term and significantly improve your quality of life.
The use of the OrthoMat
The OrthoMat is an innovative development that combines traditional acupressure with vibration to support migraine relief. The combination of these two therapies can help to further relax muscles and promote blood circulation, further reducing the symptoms of migraines.
Acupressure and vibration combined
The combination of acupressure and vibration offers a unique opportunity to combine the benefits of both approaches. Acupressure has been used for over 3,000 years in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and has been shown to have positive effects on various health conditions, including pain and sleep quality. Studies have shown that acupressure is effective for treating migraines, back pain and even insomnia. The OrthoMat uses these techniques to stimulate targeted pressure points, releasing endorphins that lead to natural pain relief.
How vibrations help
By integrating vibration therapy for migraines into the OrthoMat, deeper muscle relaxation is achieved. Vibration has the ability to penetrate deep into the muscle tissue and effectively relieve tension. This stimulating effect promotes blood circulation and facilitates the supply of oxygen to the muscles. A study conducted by the University of Duisburg-Essen in 2012 reported that almost all 82 test subjects benefited from a reduction in pain after using the acupressure mat. 96 percent felt more relaxed and 81 percent slept more restfully. These effects can be further enhanced by vibration therapy for migraines.
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Muscle relaxation | Vibrations penetrate deep into the muscle tissue and relieve tension. |
| Promotion of blood circulation | Stimulates blood circulation and improves the oxygen supply to the muscles. |
| Natural pain relief | Acupressure releases endorphins, which leads to a reduction in stress hormones. |
| Improved sleep quality | Relaxation before going to bed can lead to deeper and more restful sleep. |
By using the OrthoMat regularly, you can benefit from the positive effects of vibration therapy for migraines and acupressure and thus significantly reduce your migraine symptoms.
Additional tips for preventing headaches
Various measures can be taken to prevent headaches. These include lifestyle changes, a balanced diet and hydration, relaxation techniques and avoiding known triggers.
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle adjustments are crucial to prevent headaches. Regular exercise, for example through moderate sports such as yoga or swimming, can help to reduce migraines and tension headaches. Sufficient sleep is also essential to ensure the body regenerates.
Nutrition and hydration
A balanced diet and adequate hydration play a key role in preventing headaches. It is recommended to drink about 1.5 liters of water daily to avoid dehydration. Certain foods such as chocolate or cheese can trigger migraines in sensitive people, so these should be avoided.
Relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can help to release tension in the muscles and thus reduce the frequency of headaches. These techniques also support the flow of Qi energy in the body.
Avoiding triggers
Known triggers such as stress, alcohol, too little sleep or bright light should be avoided if possible. It can be helpful to keep a headache diary in order to better identify and avoid individual triggers.
Yin and yang for headaches
The balance between yin and yang is central to health according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Headaches can be a sign of an imbalance influenced by internal or external factors. Acupressure helps to restore the energetic balance by balancing yin and yang, which can help to relieve headaches.
Balance of life energies
The yin-yang balance is essential for our well-being. Yin represents the cooling, calming energy, while yang is the warming, stimulating force. An imbalance of these energies can lead to health problems such as headaches. Acupressure points such as Ma8, Bl2 and GB8 play a crucial role in restoring this balance. The Ma8 pressure point is located at the temple angle and should be massaged for around 30 seconds to promote Yin Yang balance.
How acupressure helps
In order to understand the effects of acupressure, it is helpful to know the specific pressure points and their applications. The pressure point Bl2 is located at the root of the nose and can relieve tension, while GB8, about three finger widths above the ear, helps with dizziness and ringing in the ears. A regular 30-second massage of these points can harmonize the vital energies. TCM experts therefore recommend regular acupressure to maintain the Yin Yang balance and effectively treat headaches.
Experiences and studies on acupressure
Numerous studies and personal experience reports confirm the effectiveness of acupressure in the treatment of headaches and migraines. Acupressure research has repeatedly confirmed the effectiveness of this ancient healing method.
- Acupressure could be used to relieve symptoms such as nausea or headaches.
- There are a total of 365 acupressure points distributed along twelve meridians in the body.
- Acupressure is a suitable alternative therapy for needle-sensitive patients, such as children.
- The stimulation of acupressure points is intended to release blockages in the energy flow and restore balance in the body.
Acupressure testimonials show that many people have experienced a significant reduction in the intensity of their pain through regular use of this technique. The use of acupressure mats in particular is highlighted in scientific studies: they have been shown to be effective in treating back pain and tension.
| Age group | Duration of the acupressure treatment |
|---|---|
| Babies from three to six months | 0.5 to 4 minutes |
| Babies up to twelve months | 1 to 5 minutes |
| Children from one to three years | 3 to 7 minutes |
| Older children | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Adults | 5 to 15 minutes |
Acupressure research recommends repeating the pressure on acupressure points from 0.5 to 3 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. Specific points have been identified that help with various complaints:
- Lung meridian point 7 (Lieque): Relief of migraine and breathing problems.
- Large intestine meridian point 4 (Hegu): Effective anti-pain point.
- Stomach meridian point 36 (Zusanli): General source of strength.
- Heart meridian point 7 (Shenmen): For heart problems and sleep disorders.
Interestingly, the use of acupressure points to support weight loss was also investigated:
- Point Lung 7: Accelerates fat burning.
- Point Liver 13: Supports the metabolism.
- Point “Sea of Energy”: Prevents food cravings.
Acupressure performed gently is generally free of side effects. However, you should be careful not to apply excessive pressure to avoid bruising.
Conclusion
In summary, migraine relief with acupressure is a valuable and natural way to reduce the intensity and frequency of headaches. The application of specific acupressure points such as Ma8, Bl 2, GB 8 and 3E 23 offers a targeted way to treat pain. Research, such as that published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine in 2010, confirms the effectiveness of acupressure in migraine relief.
In addition to acupressure, simple techniques such as self-massage and the use of acupressure mats (e.g. OrthoMat) offer additional support in the fight against migraines. These methods are not only beneficial for the acute treatment of symptoms, but can also contribute to an improvement in general well-being in the long term. Regular massaging of trigger points such as Hegu (LI 4), Taiyang (EX-HN 5) and Zusanli (ST 36) for about 1-2 minutes per point can promote relaxation and relief.
The fact that Acupressure Summary for Migraine Management is also supported by scientific studies increases its credibility as a low-side-effect alternative to conventional treatment methods, such as taking painkillers (e.g. ibuprofen, paracetamol, aspirin or triptans). For chronic problems and more severe attacks, however, it is always advisable to consult a specialist to ensure a comprehensive therapy tailored to individual needs.
FAQ
Q: What is acupressure?
Q: How can acupressure help in the treatment of migraines?
Q: Which acupressure points are particularly effective for migraines?
Q: How do I find the right pressure points for migraines?
Q: Are there self-massage techniques for migraines?
Q: What are the benefits of using acupressure mats?
Q: How do I use an acupressure mat correctly?
Q: What is an OrthoMat and how can it help with migraines?
Q: What additional measures can help prevent headaches?
Q: How does the balance of yin and yang help to relieve headaches?
Q: Are there any scientific studies on the benefits of acupressure for migraines?
References
- Acupressure for migraine-related nausea | MigräneLiga e.V. Germany – https://www.migraeneliga.de/akupressur-bei-migraenebedingter-uebelkeit/
- Acupressure for headaches: effective techniques for relief – https://orthomechanik.de/blogs/news/akupressur-gegen-kopfschmerzen-effektive-techniken-zur-linderung
- Acupuncture for migraines and tension headaches – INDA Pharmacy – https://inda-apotheke.de/leben/akupunktur-bei-migraene-und-spannungskopfschmerz/
- Acupressure at home – https://www.dak.de/dak/gesundheit/koerper-seele/akupressur-fuer-zu-hause_18826
- Treating migraines with acupuncture? What researchers say – https://www.kopfschmerzen.de/migraene/vorbeugen/migraene-akupunktur
- ACUPRESSURE, NEUROPHARMACOLOGY AND PSYCHIC HEALTH – Acupuncture & Auriculotherapy – https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s15009-021-5714-5
- Acupressure mat: application, effect and beneficial exercises – https://artztvitality.com/blogs/vitality-blog/akupressurmatte?srsltid=AfmBOoqtDUJPf8BhPljA9YxJZIuUfSIcVybt5SOuCIPZ8qGf1FpYaB-N
- Acupressure for headaches – 7 helpful TIPS – Full Balance – https://www.fullbalance.com/akupressur/kopfschmerzen/
- Acupressure: relieving pain through massage? – https://www.zdf.de/nachrichten/ratgeber/gesundheit/akupressur-uebelkeit-verspannungen-loesen-tcm-100.html
- Acupressure: application & effect – https://www.netdoktor.de/alternativmedizin/tcm/akupressur/
