Almost 45 million Americans suffer from chronic, disabling headaches, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). The most popular headache treatment is non-prescription, over-the-counter pain relievers, which may have negative side effects when used long term. Acupressure is a natural, self-care method that can help relieve headaches, although there is not enough evidence to support these claims. Contact a doctor if: You experience three or more headaches per week; take a pain reliever every day or almost everyday; take more than the recommended pain reliever dose to relieve your headache; have a stiff neck or fever with your headache; or if your headache continues to worsen and will not go away.
Hand Point
One pressure point that may help relieve your headaches is located in the webbing of your hand between your thumb and index finger. Hold your hand so your palm is facing the floor and pinch the webbing with the thumb and forefinger of your opposite hand. Squeeze this area until it is tender and continue to massage for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat on the opposite hand. Do not stimulate this point if you are pregnant.
Wrist Point
Another pressure point for headaches is located on your forearm, just above your wrist. Hold your hand so your palm faces the floor and measure two inches above the wrist crease, about three finger breadths, until you locate the point directly between the two arm bones. Press and massage to the point of tenderness for 15 to 30 seconds with the thumb of your opposite hand. Repeat on the same point of your opposite arm.
Head Point
A third pressure point that may relieve headaches is located on the back of your head, at the base of your skull. Stand, sit or lie on your back and place your hands on both sides of your head. Place your thumbs at the base of your skull and locate the depressions about two inches from the midline of your neck. Press and massage these areas with both thumbs in circular movements for 1 to 2 minutes.
References
- University of Maryland Medicine: Headache
- "Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients": G-Jo Acupressure Headaches; Michael Blate; 1996
- Chinese Holistic Health Exercises: Acupressure Points for Relieving Headaches
