by Judith C Evans

Created on: August 28, 2010

According to traditional Asian medicine, “chi”, or the life force, flows along meridians in the body. When this flow is disrupted, illness can occur. Applying pressure to certain points along the meridians can restore the proper flow and relieve symptoms.

Sinusitis can be caused by infection or allergies. The hollow sinus cavities in the head become inflamed, causing congestion, swelling, headache, and even toothache. Acupressure therapy can relieve the symptoms of sinusitis, as well as restore balance to the immune system. Apply pressure to the point for 15 to 30 seconds, and then apply pressure to the same point on the other side of the body.

Points on Hands and Feet

For relief of sinus symptoms, apply pressure to the area just below the base of the thumbnail, away from the rest of the fingers. Apply pressure to a similar point on the second toe, just below the base of the nail, on the side farthest from the big toe.  

Another point on the hand is on the ridge that forms between your thumb and forefinger as you squeeze those fingers together. Apply pressure at the middle of the crease, on the side away from your thumb. This point addresses congestion and allergies. This point is not an option for pregnant women, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.

Points on Head and Neck

Just below the arch of the eyebrow, there is a slight indentation of the eye socket. You will feel a slight drilling sensation just below this point when you correctly apply pressure. Applying pressure to this point relieves watery eyes, headache, and allergies.

Pressure can be applied to two points are located near the nose. The first, alongside the nostril, relieves pain, congestion, and swelling. Another point, in the area at which the outside of the nostril meets the cheek, relieves eye and tooth pain.

Locate the indentation between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose. Apply pressure to this point for relief of allergy symptoms, as well as congestion and headache.

For relief of sore throat, allergies, or headache, apply pressure to the back of the neck on the muscle at either side of the spine, 1/2 inch below the skull.

Conclusion

If your sinus symptoms are accompanied by greenish discharge and fever, an infection is the likely cause of your symptoms. Consult your doctor if symptoms are severe or persist. Once the cause and treatment have been determined, acupressure can provide relief from symptoms. Consult a trained practitioner if you are pregnant or suffer from chronic health problems.

Sources:

Acupuncture.com: Acupressure for Sinusitis

Herbal Shop: Acupressure Points for Relieving Sinusitis

Stanford School of Medicine: Online Acupressure Guide

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