Migraine is a recurring headache condition characterized by severe, throbbing pain.
It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- nausea
- sensitivity to light and sound
- visual disturbances such as flashing lights and blind spots
While treatment options such as medication can help to relieve migraine symptoms, acupressure is becoming a common treatment alternative. This ancient Chinese medicine practice involves applying pressure to target areas on the body.
Some studies suggest that stimulating pressure points on the body, such as those found on the hands, ears, and neck, may help provide relief by reducing how often your migraine symptoms occur.
Pressure points
Several pressure points on the body, such as the hands, ears, and neck, may help provide migraine relief. These include:
He Gu (LI4) pressure point
This pressure point is present on the hand, between the thumb and index finger, in the fleshy webbing. Stimulating the He Gu point helps relieve headaches, including migraine headaches, by promoting the flow of energy and reducing tension.
Taiyang (EX-HN5) pressure point
This point is present at the temples, on the sides of the head, in the hollow area. Applying gentle pressure to the Taiyang point may help relieve headaches and reduce accompanying symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound.
Feng Chi (GB20) pressure point
The location of this point is at the base of the skull, in the hollows on both sides of the neck, where the neck muscles attach to the skull. Stimulating the Feng Chi point alleviates migraine symptoms by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
Jian Jing (GB21) pressure point
This point is in the shoulder muscle, halfway between the neck’s base and the shoulder’s edge. Stimulating the Jian Jing point can help relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, which are common sites of muscle tightness associated with migraine.
Consider speaking with a doctor or a licensed acupuncturist before attempting any acupressure techniques for migraine. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure your safety.
What are the side effects of acupressure?
Acupressure is generally considered safe when performed correctly by a trained practitioner and can help relieve migraine symptoms.
However, like any alternative treatment option, there are potential side effects. These may include:
- soreness or bruising
- increased sensitivity
- emotional release
- light-headedness or dizziness
- temporary worsening of symptoms in rare cases
- injury
If you experience any of these side effects, you should speak with a doctor immediately.
Other treatment options
In addition to acupressure, several other treatment methods are available to help manage migraine. These options may include medications and lifestyle modifications.
Medication
Certain medications can help reduce migraine symptoms, such as pain and inflammation. Some common prescription drugs for migraine include:
- Antidepressants: A doctor may prescribe certain antidepressants to prevent silent migraine. These drugs also help reduce the frequency and intensity of aura symptoms. For example, nortriptyline (Pamelor).
- Valproic acid: Doctors sometimes prescribe Valproic acid (Depakote) as a preventive medication for migraine. It effectively reduces the frequency and severity of migraine attacks and aura symptoms.
- Triptans: These medications constrict blood vessels in the brain and reduce inflammation. A doctor may prescribe triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex) and zolmitriptan (Zomig), to alleviate aura symptoms and prevent the progression of a migraine episode.
- Fioricet with codeine: Doctors sometimes prescribe Fioricet with codeine to help treat migraine when other medications are ineffective. However, you should use codeine-containing medications with caution due to their risk of dependency and side effects.
- Dihydroergotamine: Dihydroergotamine (Migranal) is an effective option for treating acute migraine and prevention. It works by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation in the brain, relieving aura symptoms.
Need a refill for sumatriptan succinate (Imitrex)? You may be able to get an online prescription through Optum Perks in as little as 15 minutes with no video or appointment needed. Learn more here.
