just two per week. The average length of a subject’s headache also decreased by half during the treatment period.
Scientists have also looked at how one-hour massage treatments affect women with chronic headaches over two weeks. The women received massages from certified massage practitioners.
Researchers found that intense massage sessions led to reduced intensity, occurrence, and duration of headaches.
Studies on stimulating pressure points for migraine relief have also been done.
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How Can I Use Pressure Points to Relieve Headaches?
There are several well-known pressure points in the body believed to relieve headaches.
Union Valley
The union valley pressure points are located on the web between your thumb and index finger. This pressure point is believed to relieve tension in the head and neck. To treat headaches:
- Pinch this area with your thumb and index finger firmly for 10 seconds.
- Make small circles with your thumb on this area for 10 seconds.
- Repeat the process on your opposite hand.
Bamboo Points
Bamboo points are located at the indentations where the bridge of your nose meets the ridge of your eyebrows. Touching these pressure points can relieve headaches caused by eyestrain and sinus pressure. To use these pressure points to treat headaches:
- Apply pressure to both points with your index fingers
- Hold for 10 seconds
- Release and repeat
The Gates of Consciousness
The gates of consciousness pressure points are located at the base of the skull next to your two vertical neck muscles. Applying firm touch to these pressure points may relieve headaches caused by neck tension. To use these pressure points:
- Press firmly on both sides with your index and middle fingers
- Hold for ten seconds
- Release and repeat
The Third Eye
The third eye pressure point is found between your two eyebrows, where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead. Pressure applied to the third eye point may relieve eyestrain and sinus pressure that often causes headaches.
- Use the index finger of one hand to apply firm pressure for one minute
Conclusion
Some research suggests that using pressure points and massage therapy on the head and shoulders can help relieve headaches.
Reflexology is a noninvasive, nonpharmaceutical way to treat headaches. It’s very safe. Seek professional medical help if you experience recurring or unusually intense headaches.