Migraine can be a debilitating, persistent health problem. While throbbing head pain is the most common symptom of migraine headache attacks.
Conventional therapy for migraine consists of lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers, pain-relieving drugs. And also and precautionary treatments such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants. Unfortunately, experiencing the pain and discomfort of a headache is very common. If you’re searching for a more natural method to treat your headache, you may prefer to think of acupressure and pressure points. For some people with migraine headaches, stimulating pressure points on the body might give relief. It’s called acupressure if you press on the point. Acupuncture is a method that involves the insertion of a tiny needle to stimulate pressure points.
Pressure points used to alleviate migraine pain include those on the hands, feet, ears, and other areas such as the neck and face.
Pressure Point on Hand
Union Valley, also termed pressure point LI4 or Hegu, lies between the base of your thumb and index finger on each hand. Pressing on this point might decrease pain and headaches.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
Pressure Points on Ear
Auricular acupressure may improve migraine symptoms. Auriculotherapy is a type of acupressure or acupuncture that is directed on points on the ear.
Ear apex
This point is also known as HN6 or Erjian and is located at the tip of your ear. It might help in reducing pain and swelling.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
Ear gate
Also called SJ21 or Ermen, this point can be located where the top of your ear meets or touches your temple. It might be helpful for jaw as well as facial pain.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
Daith
This point is found at the cartilage simply above the opening to your ear canal. A 2020 case showed that a female discovered migraine relief via a Daith piercing, which might simulate acupuncture. Nevertheless, there is not enough evidence for this technique.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
Pressure Points On Foot
These includes:
Moving point
This might be known as LV2 or Xingjian. You can discover it in the valley in between your big and second toes. It might reduce pain in your jaw and face.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat.
Great surge
Additionally referred to as LV3 or Tai Chong, this point is located in the valley between the big and second toes, approximately 1–2 inches back from the toes. It may help in the reduction of stress, sleeplessness, and anxiety.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
Above tears
Also called GB41 or Zulinqi and lies in between and somewhat back from the fourth and fifth toes. A 2017 study trusted Source recommended that acupuncture at GB41 and other points better minimize migraine episodes than Botox injections or medication.
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat.
Is it effective?
Both acupressure and acupuncture have been shown in studies to help to alleviate some migraine symptoms. But still, additional research is required.
- According to a 2019 study, self-administering acupressure may also help to reduce fatigue in persons with migraines, as tiredness is a common symptom of migraine.
- According to a 2017 Trusted Source study, acupressure may help to reduce nausea related to migraines. Participants received acupressure at points on their hands and wrist for eight weeks, in addition to the medication sodium valproate.
Make a consultation with a certified professional to use acupressure or acupuncture to ease your migraine symptoms. You might also see improvement by massaging your pressure points in your home.
Diagnosis
There is no particular test that can allow your medical professional to diagnose migraines. Instead, your doctor will ask about your symptoms to make a medical diagnosis. Furthermore, they may ask about your family medical history.
Migraine Treatment
Your medical professional will most likely suggest lifestyle modifications to help treat your migraine. In addition, they’ll likely motivate you to identify and avoid your migraine triggers, which differ from one person to another.
Depending upon your triggers, they might encourage you to:
- Adjust your sleep schedule
- Change your diet and stay hydrated
- Take steps to manage stress
- Switch medications
There are also some medications available to deal with migraine attacks. Your medical professional might advise pain-relieving drugs to handle your immediate symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe you preventive medications to lower the frequency or length of your migraine attacks. For example, they might recommend anticonvulsants or antidepressants to adjust your brain chemistry or function. Some alternative treatments may also provide relief. As discussed, acupressure, acupuncture, massage therapy, and some supplements might help deal with migraines.
Migraine triggers
- Certain medications, like birth control pills or vasodilators
- Too much sleep or insomnia (a lack of sleep)
- Changes in the weather or barometric pressure
- Certain beverages, like wine, other types of alcohol, or caffeinated drinks
- Sensory stimuli, such as loud sounds, bright lights, or unusual smells
- Stress and intense physical activity
- Some foods, e.g., aged cheeses, salty foods, processed foods
Note: Constantly speak to your physician before seeking home treatments or alternative treatments for migraines. They can help you to figure out which lifestyle modifications may give you the most relief.
