Tsubo Guide

Migraine topic

Migraine Pressure Points by Symptom

This page keeps the first version focused on 6 core pressure points. Start with Hegu, Fengchi, and Taiyang as the quick 3, then add Neiguan for nausea, Yintang for forehead or brow tightness, and Taichong for stress tension.

Use this page as a self-care reference, not as a diagnosis or treatment plan. Seek urgent care for sudden severe headache, weakness, trouble speaking, vision changes, fever, or headache after an injury.

Version 1 core pressure point combinations

Start with Hegu, Fengchi, and Taiyang. Add Neiguan for nausea, Yintang for forehead or brow tightness, and Taichong for stress tension. These are supportive self-care references, not migraine treatment claims.

Hegu LI4: On the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger
Hegu LI4On the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger

How to find it

  1. On the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger

How to press

  1. Do not press Hegu during pregnancy unless a clinician says it is appropriate.

Cautions

  • Do not press Hegu during pregnancy unless a clinician says it is appropriate.
Fengchi GB20: Below the back of the skull, in the hollows on both sides of the neck
Fengchi GB20Below the back of the skull, in the hollows on both sides of the neck

How to find it

  1. Below the back of the skull, in the hollows on both sides of the neck

How to press

  1. Use gentle pressure only; avoid pressing into sharp pain.

Cautions

  • Use gentle pressure only; avoid pressing into sharp pain.
Taiyang EX-HN5: In the hollow outside the eyebrow tail and outer eye corner
Taiyang EX-HN5In the hollow outside the eyebrow tail and outer eye corner

How to find it

  1. In the hollow outside the eyebrow tail and outer eye corner

How to press

  1. For local relaxation reference only

Cautions

  • For local relaxation reference only
Yintang EX-HN3: Midpoint between the eyebrows, above the bridge of the nose
Yintang EX-HN3Midpoint between the eyebrows, above the bridge of the nose
Forehead tightnessBrow tensionEye-strain-related heaviness

How to find it

  1. Find the inner ends of both eyebrows.
  2. Use the midpoint between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose, as the reference point.

How to press

  1. Use the pad of the index or middle finger to press lightly or make small slow circles.
  2. Try 30 to 60 seconds. Keep the pressure gentle and relaxing.

Cautions

  • Do not press toward the eyeballs or press through sharp pain.
  • Seek medical care first for vision changes, severe eye pain, injury, or sudden severe headache.
Taichong LR3: Top of the foot, in the hollow between the big toe and second toe bones
Taichong LR3Top of the foot, in the hollow between the big toe and second toe bones
Foot pointStress tensionRelaxation

How to find it

  1. Trace upward from the web between the big toe and second toe.
  2. Use the hollow between the two metatarsal bones where gentle pressure feels dull or achy.

How to press

  1. Use the thumb pad to massage the hollow on the top of the foot gently.
  2. Try 30 to 60 seconds on each side and stop if it feels uncomfortable.

Cautions

  • Do not press over foot injury, swelling, infection, rash, or clear pain.
  • If pregnant, medically complex, or unsure, ask a clinician before trying pressure points.
Neiguan PC6: Inner wrist, about three finger widths below the wrist crease
Neiguan PC6Inner wrist, about three finger widths below the wrist crease

How to find it

  1. Inner wrist, about three finger widths below the wrist crease

How to press

  1. Press gently on the inner wrist; stop if tingling or pain increases.

Cautions

  • Press gently on the inner wrist; stop if tingling or pain increases.

Common migraine symptoms

One-sided or throbbing pain

Migraine often feels one-sided or pulsing, though it can also affect both sides.

Worse with activity

Walking, stairs, or routine activity can make the pain feel stronger.

Light or sound sensitivity

Bright light, noise, or smells can feel harder to tolerate.

May include nausea

Some people have stomach discomfort, nausea, or vomiting; avoid strong stimulation.

Common questions

Is every one-sided headache a migraine?

No. One-sided throbbing is common in migraine, but other causes are possible. Pattern, duration, recurrence, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, and nausea all matter.

Can I press points during a migraine?

Gentle self-care may be reasonable for some people, but it is not a substitute for medical care. Stop immediately if pain, dizziness, nausea, or numbness worsens.

How long should each point be pressed?

Start with light pressure for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Do not chase strong pain or press continuously for a long time.

When should I seek care quickly?

Seek care for sudden severe headache, vision changes, fever, weakness, trouble speaking, headache after injury, or a clear change in headache pattern.