Pressure Points for Headaches: Tension, Sinus, and More

In one study, massage was used 2-3x/wk for 6 months, to help four adults experiencing chronic tension headaches.

• By the first week, the number of headaches was reduced for everyone.
• By the end of the treatment, the average number of headaches fell from almost 7 headaches per week to just 2.
• The average length of their headache decreased by half, from 8 total hours to 4.

In another study, 21 women had 10 intense one-hour massage sessions spread over 2 weeks. It led to a reduced occurrence, duration, and intensity of headaches.

Located on the web between your thumb and index finger.

To treat headaches:

1. Pinch this area firmly for 10 seconds, with the thumb and index finger of your opposite hand.
2. Next, using your thumb, make small circles in one direction and then the other, for 10 seconds each.
3. Repeat this process on your opposite hand.

This pressure point is said to relieve head and neck tension, often associated with headaches.

Located where the bridge of your nose meets the ridge of your eyebrows, on either side of that area.

To treat headaches:

1. Use both of your index fingers to apply firm pressure to both points at once.
2. Hold for 10 seconds.
3. Release and repeat.

These points can relieve headaches that are caused by eyestrain and sinus pain or pressure.

Located at the base of the skull in the parallel hollow areas between the two vertical neck muscles.

To treat headaches:

1. Using either hand, place your index and middle fingers onto these pressure points.
2. At the same time, press firmly upward on both sides for 10 seconds, then release and repeat.

These points can help relieve headaches caused by tension in the neck.

Located between your eyebrows where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead.

To treat headaches:

1. Use the index finger of one hand to apply firm pressure to this area for 1 minute.

This point is thought to relieve eyestrain and sinus pressure that often cause headaches.

Located at the edge of your shoulder, halfway between your shoulder point and the base of your neck.

To treat headaches:

1. Use the thumb of one hand to apply firm, circular pressure to this point for 1 minute.
2. Then switch and repeat on the opposite side.

This point can help relieve stiffness and pain in your neck and shoulders, preventing headaches.