6 Acupressure Points for Migraine Relief
Published July 22, 2026 by SEASONS Wellness
Migraines affect over one billion people worldwide, causing intense, debilitating pain that can last for hours or even days. While medications can help, many people seek natural alternatives or complementary approaches to manage their symptoms. Acupressure, a core technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine, offers a drug-free method that you can use anywhere, anytime, to help relieve migraine pain.
This guide covers six of the most effective acupressure points for migraine relief, with precise instructions on how to find and stimulate each one.
How Acupressure Works for Migraines
In TCM, migraines are often associated with Liver Yang rising, Gallbladder channel obstruction, or Blood stagnation in the head. The pain typically follows the Gallbladder meridian, which runs along the sides of the head. Acupressure works by stimulating specific points along the meridians to regulate Qi (energy) flow, reduce tension, and restore balance.
From a modern perspective, acupressure stimulates nerve endings, promotes blood circulation, and triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers. Research has shown that acupressure can significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of headaches.
1. Gallbladder 20 (GB20) — Feng Chi (Wind Pool)
Location
GB20 is located at the base of the skull, in the two hollow depressions on either side of the neck, where the neck meets the skull. You can find it by tracing your thumbs up the back of your neck until you feel the hollow just below the skull bone.
How to Apply Pressure
Using your thumbs, press firmly into the hollow on both sides simultaneously. Tilt your head back slightly to deepen the pressure. Hold for 1-2 minutes while breathing deeply. You may feel a dull ache or a radiating sensation toward the top of your head.
Why It Works
GB20 is one of the most important points for headache and migraine relief. It lies on the Gallbladder meridian, which governs the sides of the head. Stimulating this point releases neck tension, improves blood flow to the brain, and subdues ascending Yang energy that contributes to migraine pain.
2. Large Intestine 4 (LI4) — He Gu (Joining Valley)
Location
LI4 is found in the webbing between your thumb and index finger. To locate it precisely, squeeze your thumb and index finger together. The point is at the highest point of the muscle bulge. When you relax your hand, apply pressure there.
How to Apply Pressure
Use the thumb of your opposite hand to press deeply into the muscle. Massage in small circles for 1-2 minutes on each hand.
Important: Do not use this point during pregnancy, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
Why It Works
LI4 is the most widely used acupressure point for all types of head and face pain, including migraines. It is the command point for the head and face. Stimulating LI4 moves Qi and Blood, relieves stagnation, and has a strong analgesic effect on the upper body.
3. Gallbladder 21 (GB21) — Jian Jing (Shoulder Well)
Location
GB21 is located at the highest point of the shoulder, midway between the tip of the shoulder and the base of the neck. You can find it by pressing on the top of the shoulder muscle (trapezius) where it is most prominent.
How to Apply Pressure
Using your opposite hand, pinch the shoulder muscle between your thumb and middle finger. Apply firm, squeezing pressure for 30-60 seconds on each side. Alternatively, have someone else press both sides simultaneously.
Why It Works
GB21 is a powerful point for releasing tension in the neck and shoulders, which is a common trigger for migraines. It also helps descend Qi, making it valuable when migraine pain involves a sensation of pressure or energy rushing upward.
4. Tai Yang (Extra Point) — Sun Point
Location
Tai Yang is located in the soft depression at the temples, approximately one finger-width outside the outer end of the eyebrow, in line with the outer corner of the eye.
How to Apply Pressure
Using your index or middle fingers, press gently but firmly into the temple depression. Massage in slow, small circles for 1-2 minutes. Keep your eyes closed and breathe deeply.
Why It Works
Tai Yang is not part of a traditional meridian but is one of the most effective extra points for headache relief. It directly addresses pain in the temporal region, which is where many migraines are concentrated. This point is particularly useful for migraines that feel throbbing or pulsating on the sides of the head.
5. Liver 3 (LV3) — Tai Chong (Great Surge)
Location
LV3 is found on the top of the foot, in the webbing between the big toe and the second toe. Slide your finger up from the webbing about one inch toward the ankle. The point is in the depression just before the bones of the two toes meet.
How to Apply Pressure
Use your thumb to press firmly into the point. Massage in small circles for 1-2 minutes on each foot.
Why It Works
LV3 is the most important point for addressing the Liver patterns that underlie many migraines. In TCM, the Liver ensures smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. When Liver Qi stagnates (due to stress, anger, or frustration), it can transform into Fire and ascend to the head, triggering migraines. LV3 regulates Liver Qi, clears heat, and subdues rising Yang.
6. Pericardium 6 (PC6) — Nei Guan (Inner Gate)
Location
PC6 is located on the inner forearm, three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the two tendons running up the center of the forearm.
How to Apply Pressure
Use your thumb to press between the two tendons. Apply moderate to firm pressure for 1-2 minutes on each arm.
Why It Works
PC6 is widely known for relieving nausea and vomiting, which are common migraine symptoms. Additionally, this point helps calm the mind and regulate the chest and upper abdominal energy, making it valuable for migraines accompanied by chest tightness, anxiety, or digestive upset.
Acupressure Protocol for Active Migraines
When a migraine strikes, follow this sequence for maximum relief:
- Step 1: Start with GB20 (Wind Pool) to release neck tension and improve cranial blood flow.
- Step 2: Apply pressure to Tai Yang (Sun Point) on both temples to address the localized pain.
- Step 3: Press LI4 (Joining Valley) on both hands to activate the body's general pain relief response.
- Step 4: Move to LV3 (Great Surge) on both feet to regulate Liver energy and address the root pattern.
- Step 5: If nausea is present, add PC6 (Inner Gate).
- Step 6: Finish with GB21 (Shoulder Well) to release any remaining shoulder tension.
Repeat the entire sequence 2-3 times as needed, resting quietly in a dark room between rounds.
Tips for Better Results
- Be consistent: Acupressure works best when practiced regularly, not just during acute attacks. Try stimulating these points daily for prevention.
- Breathe deeply: Deep, slow breathing enhances the effectiveness of acupressure by promoting relaxation and oxygen flow.
- Use moderate pressure: Press firmly enough to feel a dull ache, but not so hard that you cause sharp pain or bruising.
- Combine with other strategies: Acupressure works well alongside hydration, magnesium-rich foods, proper sleep, and stress management.
- Track your migraines: Keep a journal to identify triggers and monitor how acupressure affects frequency and intensity over time.
When to Seek Professional Help
While acupressure can be remarkably effective, it is not a replacement for medical care. Consult a healthcare provider if:
- Your migraines suddenly change in pattern, frequency, or severity
- You experience neurological symptoms such as vision loss, weakness, or confusion
- Headaches occur more than twice a week despite treatment
- You rely on pain medications more than two days per week
Conclusion
Acupressure offers a safe, natural, and accessible tool for managing migraine pain. By learning to stimulate these six key points, you empower yourself with a technique that can be used at home, at work, or while traveling. While it may not eliminate migraines entirely, many people find significant relief when they combine acupressure with healthy lifestyle choices and proper medical care.
Practice these points regularly, even when you are pain-free. Over time, you will become more skilled at locating and stimulating them, and your body will respond more quickly when you need relief.