Pressure Points in the Scalp

Pressure points are commonly used in acupuncture and acupressure practices in traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurvedic treatments. A pressure point may be gently pressed to help relieve pain or restore the flow of energy, or chi, through the body. Pain and other symptoms are believed in some cultures to be caused by clogged or blocked channels in the body called meridians. Pressure points found on the body, including the scalp, may be manipulated by yourself or another person for relief.

Known as Bai Hui in Chinese, the Hundred Convergences pressure point is also called the GV acupuncture point of the Governing Vessel meridian. This line of pressure points comprises 28 individual pressure points that extend from the upper lip, upward to the brow, over the top of the head and down the scalp in a straight line, then continues to extend down the spine. Manipulation of each of the pressure points along this line of the scalp offers a variety of benefits, including pain relief, increased stimulation and circulation along blood and nerve pathways leading away from the pressure point, and reduced muscle tension brought about by pressure or gentle circular massage, according to Yin Yang House, a website dedicated to natural health and wellness.

Located at the top of the forehead above the bridge of the nose, the Shen Ting pressure point, called Spirit Court in English and known as the GV 24 acupuncture point, may be pressed for three to five minutes for relief of chronic sinusitis, frontal lobe headaches and sinus congestion, suggests Yin Yang House. The pressure point is located in the network of cranial or skull nerve system pathways and may also be manipulated to help relieve symptoms of vertigo.

The Feng Fu pressure point is found at the base of the skull, just below the bottom ridge of the skull cap at the top of the neck. Called Wind Mansion in English this pressure point is often manipulated for relief of headache, neck aches and stiff necks. The point may also help relieve dizziness and numbness in the neck area, suggests Yin Yang House.

Shuaigu, also known as the GB8 acupressure point, is located above the ear just inside the hairline. When pressed or manipulated for about three minutes, this pressure point is believed to help relieve pain of migraine, as well as relieve dizziness and vomiting. This point is also commonly used in acupuncture, according to the Traditional Chinese Medicine Advisory website, which focuses on traditional Chinese medicine and medical practices.