Do you know that massaging pressure points in the sinuses helps to reduce nasal congestion? Yes, you have read that right, as some points around your nasal cavity help to relieve the stiffness of the nose if pressure is applied with fingertips using circular motion. If there is swelling in your sinuses, then you might have a blocked or stuffy nose, and it becomes difficult to breathe. Therefore, you can turn to complementary or alternative ways to get relief from nasal congestion easily and simply. In this article, we will explore the pressure points to relieve sinus congestion so that you can breathe easily and prevent the stuffiness inside your nose.
What are the Pressure Points?
Acupressure is a type of traditional Chinese treatment in which particular points in the body are stimulated by experts using pressure through the fingers. The main goal of this therapy is to disperse the vital force that has become stagnant. Acupressure can be easily tried at home as it is non-invasive and brings excellent results. According to a survey report, 99% of the individuals who tried applying pressure to some specific points helped to relieve nasal congestion.
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Pressure Points to Relieve Sinus Congestion
Most of the pressure points for sinus relief are present in the face. The application of gentle pressure to these points assists in relieving sinus pain and boosts sinus drainage. The following seven pressure points can help you feel better and lead to sinus headache relief:-
1. The Third Eye Point
This pressure point is located between the two eyebrows, and this region is often called the third eye center. You must apply light pressure with your finger for sinus headache relief for 1-2 minutes.
2. Bridge of the Nose
There is a bridge of the nose on both sides of the nostrils where the nose and cheek meet each other. Application of gentle pressure in this area can open the blocked nose and also relieve sinus pain.
3. Cheekbone Pressure Center
These pressure points are present on the lower part of the cheekbone, exactly below the pupils. You must apply gentle pressure with your middle finger to both sides at the same time to release build-up mucus and nasal congestion.
4. Nasal Bone Pressure Point
These points are present on each side of the nose at the same level as that of the nostrils. Application of light pressure with the index fingers on both ends simultaneously will help to open the nasal passages.
5. Base of the Skull
These pressure points are located at the base of the skull, where the head comes in contact with the neck. The point is present on the hollows on each side. With the help of your thumb, exert gentle firm pressure in the upward direction to this area for sinus pressure relief.
6. Hand Pressure Points
This is an important pressure point in acupressure and is present between the thumb and index finger. Application of firm pressure at this center with the help of the thumb and index finger of the other hand will help to relieve the headache and blocked nose.
7. Foot Pressure Point
It is present on the top of the foot in between the depression of the big toe and the second toe. Application of light pressure with the thumb can help to release nasal congestion.
These pressure points are effective in the common cold as there is a build-up of pressure in these areas even during the common cold. This self-massage technique will help you feel better, and you can also use the same for your children.
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Self-Massage Techniques to Relieve Sinus Congestion
Some important pressure points can be activated using self-massage techniques. According to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a beginner must follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Relax your body and brain, sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and practice deep breathing.
- Select a specific pressure point (as guided) and apply firm pressure with a finger.
- Keep moving the finger while making circles or in an upward and downward motion for a few minutes.
- Pressure should be deep and firm, and repeat the process 2-3 times a day.
- The best way to know if you are doing it right or not is to see that the massage procedure should not hurt or cause any pain. But if it does, then reduce the pressure.
Ayurvedic Massage Techniques to Relieve Sinus Congestion
Ayurveda is one of the oldest healing systems in the world that has stood above the test of time again and again. Ayurveda believes in the concept of five core elements (panch mahabhoot) and three elemental energies (doshas) that have a tremendous impact on an individual’s well-being.
Ayurveda believes in the concept of marma; these are particular anatomical positions in the body through which the energy flows. Marma point therapy is a procedure in which these specific points are stimulated through gentle massage therapy.
Also Read – Case Study – Successful Ayurvedic Treatment of Sinusitis
Conclusion
Ancient Chinese practices like acupressure are popular around the globe due to their positive health benefits. The healing therapy believes in applying gentle pressure to some specific pressure points to relieve sinus congestion and stuffiness.
If you are stressed as your loved one is suffering from sinus congestion or allergy, then you can contact our diligent team of doctors headed by Dr. Sahil Gupta. IAFA is one of the most trustworthy and committed institutions to making the world a better place through its original and holistic approach. Dr. Gupta’s team provides effective treatment for all types of allergies and respiratory infections using 100% natural and herbal products.
References
Israel, L., Rotter, G., Förster-Ruhrmann, U., Hummelsberger, J., Nögel, R., Michalsen, A., Tissen-Diabaté, T., Binting, S., Reinhold, T., Ortiz, M., & Brinkhaus, B. (2021). Acupressure in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled exploratory trial. Chinese Medicine, 16, 137. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020-021-00536-w