“I thought it was just a headache”… but there are different kinds?
Some days your temples throb painfully and light makes your eyes sting, while other days your whole head feels heavy and tight, as if wrapped in a band. It’s all called “headache,” but the sensations are completely different, right?
That different feeling exists because they really are different headaches. Migraines and tension headaches differ in cause, mechanism, and how to deal with them.
The problem is — applying acupressure for the wrong headache type can actually make it worse. Let’s figure out what type of headache you have and learn the perfect acupressure technique for it.
Migraine vs Tension Headache Comparison
| Category | Migraine | Tension Headache |
|---|---|---|
| Sensation | Throbbing, pulsating | Squeezing, heavy pressure |
| Location | One side (left or right) | Both sides, entire head |
| Intensity | Moderate to severe | Mild to moderate |
| Accompanying symptoms | Nausea, light/sound sensitivity | Stiff neck and shoulders |
| With activity | Worsens with movement | Similar with movement |
| Duration | 4-72 hours | 30 min to several days |
| Main cause | Cerebral vasodilation, serotonin | Myofascial tension, stress |
Acupressure Points for Migraines
Migraines occur when blood vessels dilate and irritate surrounding nerves. That’s why stimulating distal points (far from the head) to redistribute qi and blood flow is an effective strategy.
- Hegu (LI4): Hand webbing — press firmly 5 sec x 10 reps. The key point for blocking pain signals to the face and head
- Taichong (LR3): Top of foot — 5 sec x 10 reps. Addresses the root cause of migraines by releasing liver qi stagnation
- Waiguan (TE5): 3cm above outer wrist — 5 sec x 8 reps. Regulates the Shaoyang meridian that runs to the side of the head
Caution: During an acute migraine, do not press directly on the painful side of your head! It can worsen the condition by stimulating blood vessels.
Acupressure Points for Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are caused by muscle stiffness. Directly releasing the acupoints on the tight muscles (proximal points) is the most effective approach.
- Fengchi (GB20): Below the back of the skull — push toward the skull 5 sec x 10 reps. Directly relaxes the suboccipital muscles
- Taiyang (EX-HN5): Temples — circular massage 30 sec + press 5 sec x 8 reps
- Jianjing (GB21): Top of shoulder — press firmly 5 sec x 8 reps. Blocks trapezius tension from traveling up to cause headaches
Type-Specific Acupressure Comparison
| Acupoint | Migraine | Tension Headache |
|---|---|---|
| Hegu LI4 | Key point (press firmly) | Supplementary |
| Fengchi GB20 | Supplementary (press gently) | Key point (press firmly) |
| Taiyang EX-HN5 | Avoid (during acute phase) | Key point |
| Taichong LR3 | Key point | Supplementary |
| Jianjing GB21 | Not applicable | Key point |
Not Sure About Your Type? Safe Combination for Any Headache
If you’re not sure what type of headache you have, these 2 points are safe for any headache type.
- Hegu (LI4): Helps relieve pain for any type of headache
- Fengchi (GB20): Safe for both migraines and tension headaches when pressed gently
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell a migraine from a tension headache?
Migraines cause throbbing pain on one side and sensitivity to light and sound. Tension headaches feel like a band squeezing both sides of your head, and daily activities are still manageable.
Won’t acupressure make a migraine worse?
During an acute migraine attack, don’t press directly on the painful side of your head. Instead, use distal points like Hegu and Taichong for better results.
Can both types occur at the same time?
Yes, it’s called a ‘mixed headache.’ Tension headaches can intensify and transition into migraines. In this case, try Fengchi + Hegu first.
Does acupressure work for cluster headaches?
Cluster headaches are extremely intense and require specialized treatment. Acupressure is only a supplementary measure — you must see a neurologist.
Is a pre-menstrual headache a migraine?
Menstrual migraines are actually a common type of migraine. They’re caused by hormonal changes and typically occur 2 days before to 3 days after menstruation. Sanyinjiao (SP6) acupressure may help.
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