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Even if they only occur occasionally, migraine attacks can be excruciating and can completely disrupt your day. There are numerous methods to treat migraines, and one of these is acupressure. This traditional Chinese medical therapy involves applying pressure to specific points on the hands and feet that correspond to other areas of the body. By focusing energy on these points, acupressure experts believe this therapy helps alleviate pain and tension in the body. Many people have reported feeling better after acupressure treatment, and studies suggest that it can effectively treat migraines. This method carries minimal risk, so you can try it at home or visit an acupressure specialist to see if it works for you. You may notice relief from migraine symptoms if performed correctly.
Steps
Identify Acupressure Points for Migraines
Acupressure involves stimulating specific points that correspond to the symptoms of the condition. The points related to the head, face, and neck—areas affected during a migraine—are located on the top of the feet. Use the following acupressure points during your treatment.
Massage the tips of your toes to soothe sinus pain. Sinus pain during a migraine can occur on the forehead, between the eyes, or around the cheekbones. The tips of all your toes correspond to the sinuses, so make sure to massage all of your toe tips when experiencing sinus pain.
Press the center of your big toe to direct energy to the brain. This small point is located near the joint of both big toes. You can reduce overall headache pain by pressing this acupoint.
Massage the tips of your big toes to relieve facial pain. The remainder of the big toe corresponds to the nose, cerebellum, brainstem, and other parts of the face. If you are experiencing pain in these areas, focus on massaging the big toe.
Press the space between your index and middle toes to relieve pain around the eyes. Eye pain often occurs during a migraine, and this point can help reduce that pain. The acupoint located between the index toe (next to the big toe) and the middle toe corresponds to the eyes.
- Some acupressure charts indicate that this point also includes the area just beneath the base of these toes. There are varying opinions in the acupressure field regarding the exact location of certain acupoints, and this is one example.
Massage beneath your big toes to treat neck pain. If your migraine pain extends to the neck, you can relieve it by massaging the top of your foot, just below the joint of the big toe.
Performing Acupressure
Once you've identified the correct acupressure points for treating migraines, you can perform acupressure at home. This is quite simple, so find a relaxing spot and give it a try to see if a quick acupressure session helps relieve your pain.
Sit in a quiet and comfortable space. The primary goal of acupressure is to relieve tension, so the best way to start the therapy is by sitting in a relaxed position. Look for a quiet area in your home where you won’t be disturbed. Sit on a couch, recliner, or floor and let go of any tension.
- Soft lighting can also enhance your comfort. If you want to set a calming mood, try lighting a scented candle.
- Let everyone in your home know not to disturb you during this time.
Use your fingers to apply pressure to each acupoint. Choose the points that correspond to the areas where you feel pain. Press each point with your thumb and fingertips, applying firm pressure to a comfortable level. Then, gently massage each point in a circular motion.
- When first performing acupressure, start with light pressure. You can gradually increase the pressure as you become more accustomed to the technique.
- If you feel pain at any point, it means you are pressing too hard. Proper acupressure techniques should not cause pain.
Massage each point for 3-5 minutes. There is no set time for acupressure, so you can perform it for as long as feels right. Start by massaging each acupoint for 3-5 minutes to assess how it feels. You can adjust the pressure or the duration for subsequent sessions.
Allow your body 24 hours to return to normal after treatment. After acupressure, your body needs time to rebalance. You might feel lightheaded, exhausted, or energized, experience frequent urination, or have strong emotions. These reactions are normal and will subside within 24 hours.
- You may feel thirstier than usual after acupressure, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
- These symptoms tend to occur more when receiving treatment from an acupressure specialist. Home treatment typically has fewer side effects.
Repeat the treatment every few days if needed. If you suffer from chronic migraines, you can perform acupressure multiple times. When starting, try treating yourself three times a week, allowing at least one day of rest between sessions, and see how your symptoms improve.
- Avoid daily acupressure. Your body needs 24 hours to restore balance after each session.
Specialized Acupressure Therapy
You can also seek professional acupressure therapy from trained specialists. These experts know exactly where the acupoints are and how much pressure to apply to relieve migraine symptoms. If at-home treatment doesn’t yield results, or if you want the most effective treatment from the start, consider seeing a specialist. A few sessions could help reduce stress and decrease the frequency of your migraines.
Find a certified acupressure specialist. If you're in the United States, look for an acupressure therapist certified by the American Acupuncture Certification Board. This is a leading organization that oversees certification in the U.S. You can visit their website to find a highly skilled and certified therapist. Their website is https://arcb.net/.
- In other countries, seek similar organizations to ensure effective treatment in your area.
- Avoid unlicensed and uncertified acupressure practitioners.
Consult with an acupressure expert about your migraines before your treatment session. Acupressure professionals always offer a consultation before the first session. This allows them to understand your issues and create the most suitable treatment plan. Inform them about your migraines and any other pain symptoms so they know which acupoints to target.
- If you have any questions, feel free to ask during the consultation. Acupressure experts will be happy to explain the process further if needed.
- Understand that the acupressure expert may ask about your health and medical history to ensure the treatment is appropriate for you. For example, pregnant women should avoid acupressure as it may induce labor.
Remove your shoes and socks, then lie down. You will remain fully clothed, except for your shoes and socks. The acupressure professional may wash your feet before beginning the treatment.
- Relax in a comfortable position. Acupressure is ultimately a relaxation therapy.
Relax for 30-60 minutes while the acupressure expert works. This is the average duration of a treatment session. You won’t have to do much during the session—just lie back and let the expert massage the acupoints. You may chat if you'd like, or simply relax.
- Let the expert know how you're feeling or if you're uncomfortable. They will adjust the pressure if needed.
- Slight tingling, light-headedness, or emotional sensations during the treatment are normal. It indicates that energy is moving to other areas of your body.
Sit up slowly after completing your session. Once your treatment is finished, the acupressure expert will not advise you to get up immediately. Your body might be deeply relaxed, and standing up too quickly could cause dizziness. The acupressure expert may recommend resting for a few minutes before standing or leaving. Once you feel ready, you can stand up and head home.
- You may feel very thirsty and will be given water during the break.
- The expert may recommend you rest and relax for the next 24 hours.
Schedule follow-up acupressure sessions as advised by the expert. You may need multiple sessions to experience the full benefits of acupressure therapy. Ask the expert how often you should return for treatment. Typically, they will suggest weekly sessions for a few months, gradually tapering off as you begin to feel better. Follow their advice for optimal results.
Important Medical Information
Although not a proven therapy for treating all conditions, many people find that acupressure helps reduce stress and alleviate pain, such as migraines. Whether you choose to practice acupressure at home or visit a professional, it is generally harmless. However, if you suffer from chronic migraines and experience no relief, it is advisable to consult a doctor to rule out underlying conditions and receive proper treatment.
Advice
- Search online for acupressure charts to help you identify the correct acupoints and techniques for self-treatment.
Warnings
- Chronic headaches may indicate an underlying health issue, so it's important to see a doctor if your migraines persist.
- Acupressure therapy is generally not recommended for pregnant women, as it may induce labor.
