Introduction
What if you suddenly hear a ringing sound in your ears that no one else can hear? How frustrating that would be! Tinnitus is a symptom that is increasingly common among modern people due to stress, sleep deprivation, and poor blood circulation. While medication is an option, tinnitus can also be effectively relieved through acupressure techniques that stimulate acupoints throughout the body. This article introduces the 5 most effective acupoints for tinnitus relief and self-acupressure methods.
5 Effective Acupoints for Tinnitus Relief
1. Taixi — KI3
Location: Inner side of the foot, in the depression between the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone) and the Achilles tendon
Effects: Replenishes kidney qi and restores the ear’s auditory function. It relieves not only tinnitus but also symptoms caused by anxiety and sleep deprivation.
Acupressure Method: Use your thumb to locate the depression between the medial malleolus and Achilles tendon. Place your foot on the opposite leg and slowly press for 3 seconds, repeating 3 times. It’s beneficial to stimulate each foot for 3 minutes.
2. Fengchi — GB20
Location: Back of the neck, in the depression below the occipital bone (back of the skull), between the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles
Effects: Relieves neck tension and promotes blood circulation to the brain. Improves tinnitus, dizziness, headaches, and neck stiffness simultaneously.
Acupressure Method: Locate the depression below the occipital bone with both thumbs. Slowly press upward for 5 seconds, repeating 10 times. Acupressure for 2-3 minutes at a time is effective.
3. Baihui — GV20
Location: At the crown of the head, where the line connecting the tops of both ears intersects with the midline (center line running from the nose upward)
Effects: Replenishes brain qi and clarifies the mind. It’s a representative acupoint for improving tinnitus, dizziness, forgetfulness, and poor concentration.
Acupressure Method: Gently press the crown of your head with both middle and ring fingers. Be careful not to stimulate with your nails, and rotate in circular motions 10 times. Practice for 2 minutes each in the morning and evening.
4. Shenshu — BL23
Location: Lower back, below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra (the most prominent bone protruding from the center line of the back), 1.5 cun on either side of the spine
Effects: Strengthens the kidneys and enhances whole-body energy. It’s particularly effective for improving tinnitus caused by kidney function decline.
Acupressure Method: Place both hands on your lower back and locate the areas beside the spine with your thumbs. Slowly press for 3 seconds each, stimulating 10 times. Applying a heat patch before acupressure is even more effective.
5. Waiguan — TE5
Location: Back of the wrist, approximately 2 cun (about 3-4 cm) above the wrist crease, between the radius and ulna
Effects: Directly improves blood circulation to the ear. It relieves not only tinnitus but also ear pain and eye fatigue.
Acupressure Method: Slowly press the back of your wrist with the thumb of your opposite hand. Repeat 10 presses of 3 seconds each on both hands. You can also stimulate this point throughout your workday.
5-Minute Self Routine
Morning Routine (5 minutes): After waking, perform in this order while still in bed: Taixi (1 minute) → Baihui (2 minutes) → Waiguan (2 minutes). This activates metabolism and helps you start the day with a clear mind.
Evening Routine (5 minutes): 30 minutes before bedtime, perform in this order: Fengchi (2 minutes) → Shenshu (2 minutes) → Taixi (1 minute). This relaxes the nerves and promotes sound sleep.
Tips for Maximum Effect: Wash your hands with warm water before acupressure, and perform the routine in a comfortable environment while breathing slowly. Practicing continuously for 3 weeks can result in a 30-50% reduction in tinnitus volume.
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