Migraine Pressure Points
You Can Try at Home

Written by Kathleen Morrison
Medically Reviewed by Andrea Sleeth WHNP-BC, MSCP

Key takeaways

• Migraine pressure points are an easy, hands-on way to feel more in control when headaches strike.
• Acupressure works by nudging your body to release endorphins and ease tension in targeted spots.
• Hands (Union Valley), feet (Great Surge), ears (Daith, Apex, Ear Gate), and face/neck (Third Eye, Gates of Consciousness) all have powerful points to try.
• Start simple—spend a few minutes pressing one or two points and notice how your body responds.
• Acupressure works best when combined with other strategies, like medications, lifestyle habits, and expert guidance from online migraine consults.
• While safe for most people, check with a healthcare provider if you’re pregnant, on blood thinners, or have fragile skin.

Did you know that simple acupressure points can sometimes help ease migraine pain? A few gentle presses in the right spots—like your temples or the base of your skull—can encourage relaxation and improve your blood circulation, which may help take the edge off the discomfort. It’s not a cure (sadly), but it’s an easy tool you can add to your self-care routine.

The great thing is that anyone can try this, anytime and anywhere. You just need to learn where to press and how much pressure feels right for you to start making a bit of a difference. Even just a few minutes can help bring some relief when a migraine hits.

Everyone’s migraines are a little different, though, so experimenting with these techniques can help you figure out what actually works for your body. Pairing it with other small habits, like hydration, a calm space, or mindful breathing, can make the approach even more effective and give you a bit more control over your day.

How pressure points work

Pressure points are all about giving your body a little nudge to tap into its natural pain-relief powers. When you press the right spots, your body can release endorphins (those feel-good, natural painkillers) that might help alleviate migraine symptoms. It’s a simple, hands-on way to take charge of your symptoms without needing anything fancy.

Hand pressure points for migraines

Applying pressure to certain spots on your hands can help ease migraine discomfort. One of the most effective points to try is the Union Valley.

Union Valley Point

The union valley point is tucked in the fleshy area between your thumb and index finger. To find it, spread your fingers and look for the highest spot of muscle when you bring them together. It’s usually about halfway between the base of your thumb and the edge of your index finger, right where the bones meet.

You’ll know you’ve got it when the spot feels slightly tender or like a small dip between two little hills of muscle. Gently press around with your opposite thumb—this spot usually feels more sensitive than the surrounding area.

Applying pressure for relief

Once you’ve located it, use your opposite thumb to press firmly on the spot. The pressure should feel steady and a little uncomfortable, but not painful. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute while taking deep breaths.

You might notice a dull ache or a tingling sensation spreading from the point—that’s totally normal. Some people feel relief right away, while others need a few rounds. Try switching sides, giving equal attention to both hands, and repeat this up to three or four times during migraine episodes for the best effect.

Foot pressure points for migraines

Your feet are full of little power spots that can actually make a difference when migraines hit. They’re packed with nerve endings and reflex points that connect with other parts of your body, so pressing the right ones can help ease tension and bring some calm to your nervous system.

The great surge point

The great surge point, or Liver 3, lives on the top of your foot. To find it, start between your big toe and second toe. Slide your finger back along the groove between the bones until you feel a small dip just before the bones meet—usually about two finger-widths back from the webbing.

You’ll know you’ve got it when the spot feels a little hollow or tender. Press gently and notice how it feels—many people sense a dull ache or warmth radiating from the point when it’s correctly stimulated. This is your body saying, “Yep, you found it.”

Applying pressure for comfort

Once you’ve located the point, use your thumb or finger to press firmly but comfortably. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute, breathing slowly and letting your body relax. Some people feel relief right away, while others need a few rounds. Try both feet, giving each side equal attention, and repeat during migraine episodes for the best effect.

Ear pressure points for migraines

Your ears are full of tiny power spots that can actually help ease migraine and headache pain. These acupressure points work through auricular therapy, which sees the ear as a mini-map of your whole body. The best part? They’re super easy to reach and can be used almost anywhere, even in public without anyone noticing. Pairing pressure points with guidance from an online migraine consultation can help you decide which techniques—or prescriptions—fit your lifestyle best.

Wisp treatment options are available only after consultation with a licensed medical professional. You should consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement or treatment regimen. Individual results may vary.

Daith and ear apex

The daith point hides in the innermost fold of your ear cartilage, just above the ear canal. Trace the inner ridge of your ear until you feel the small, firm piece of cartilage that partially covers your ear canal. Apply gentle, circular pressure with your finger or a cotton swab for 30 to 60 seconds at a time.

The ear apex lives at the very top of your ear’s outer rim and is another powerful point for headache relief. Pinch the top of your ear between your thumb and index finger, then apply firm pressure while gently pulling upward. This can help ease tension headaches and dull the intensity of migraine pain.

Ear gate point

The ear gate point sits in a small hollow right in front of your ear. Open your mouth slightly to find the depression just before the little flap covering your ear canal. This spot is especially helpful for migraines that involve jaw tension or facial pain.

Apply gentle pressure with your index or middle finger, using small, circular motions for about a minute on each side. Keep it light and comfortable—this area is sensitive, so no need to overdo it.

Face and neck pressure points for migraines

Your face and neck are packed with pressure points that can give surprisingly immediate relief from migraine pain. These spots are loaded with nerves and blood vessels, so a little targeted pressure can help reduce pain, ease muscle tension, improve blood flow, and calm nerve signals in the areas that hurt most. It’s a simple, discreet way to feel more in control when a migraine hits.

Gates of consciousness

The gates of consciousness point live at the base of your skull, on either side of your neck. Place your fingers on the back of your head and trace down to where your skull meets your neck. You’ll feel two hollow spots just outside the two vertical neck muscles.

Apply steady, upward pressure with your thumbs or middle fingers, angling slightly toward your eyes. The pressure should feel firm but comfortable, not painful. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute while taking deep breaths, and you might feel tension melting away.

Third eye point

The third eye point sits right between your eyebrows, where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead. Use your index or middle finger to press gently but firmly. Start light and gradually increase pressure over 10 to 15 seconds.

Hold steady for one to two minutes while breathing deeply, and try adding small, circular motions for extra relief. This point is especially handy for frontal headaches, sinus-related migraines, or pain triggered by eye strain and mental stress.

Who should avoid acupressure?

Acupressure for migraine relief is safe for most people, but there are times to be cautious. If you’re pregnant, some trigger points could stimulate contractions, so it’s best to avoid those areas. People with blood-clotting issues, fragile skin, or who take blood thinners should check in with a healthcare provider before trying acupressure therapy.

Even though acupressure can feel amazing, it isn’t a full replacement for professional care, especially if you deal with chronic migraines. Pay attention to your body—if your headaches suddenly change, or you notice new neurological symptoms, reach out to a medical professional right away.

An online migraine consult can connect you with providers who'll guide you through techniques or help with prescription options. It’s all about giving you ways to feel in control while keeping your care safe and approachable.

Combining acupressure with other treatments

Using acupressure alongside other migraine strategies gives you a full toolkit for managing your symptoms. Each method tackles a different part of the headache puzzle, helping you feel more in control. Here’s how you can integrate acupressure:

• Combine with medications: Use pressure points to complement your prescribed treatments or to ease breakthrough pain between doses.
• Regular practice helps: Some people find that consistent acupressure sessions allow them to rely a little less on pain meds over time while staying comfortable.
• Use handy tools: Devices like Aculief make it easy to target pressure points effectively at home.
• Get expert guidance: An online consult can provide tailored advice so you can use acupressure and migraine medication safely and confidently.
• Layer with lifestyle changes: Pairing acupressure with healthy habits like good sleep quality, hydration, and stress management can make your migraine management plan even stronger.
  

Take charge of migraines (with a little help)

Migraine pressure points are a super accessible way to manage pain and reduce the impact of migraine attacks on your daily life. From the union valley on your hands to the gates of consciousness at the base of your skull, these spots give you tools to help ease tension without relying solely on medication. Practicing them regularly can become a go-to part of your migraine toolkit.

You don’t need special gear or training to get started with pressure point therapy. Pick one or two points that match your symptoms, notice how your body responds, and gradually explore more as you get comfortable. For guidance you can trust, Wisp’s online migraine consults make it easy to get personalized advice and support—all from the comfort of your own space.

Take the next step today. Try the union valley hand technique when a headache hits, spend just a few minutes practicing, and see how it feels. When you’re ready to level up, book a same-day migraine consultation with Wisp to get expert-backed advice, explore additional pressure points, and create a plan tailored to your needs. You deserve to feel in control—and Wisp is here to help you do it.

This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information provided here.

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