What does pressing your temples do? The scientific reasons and proper technique

Research suggests that applying pressure to certain points on the body, including the temples, can alleviate pain. Understanding what does pressing your temples do? can provide a simple, natural remedy for tension headaches and general stress.

Quick Summary

Pressing your temples can relieve tension headaches and stress by relaxing tense muscles, increasing blood flow to the area, and stimulating pressure points, which may help interrupt pain signals to the brain.

Key Points

• Relieves Tension: Pressing the temples helps relax the temporalis muscle, a primary cause of tension headaches.

• Interrupts Pain Signals: Based on the Gate Control Theory of Pain, touch signals from massage can override pain signals sent to the brain.

• Stimulates Acupressure Points: The temples house the Tai Yang (M-HN-9) pressure point, known in traditional medicine for headache relief.

• Increases Blood Flow: Massaging the temples can increase localized circulation, bringing oxygen and aiding muscle recovery.

• Promotes Relaxation: The calming effect of a temple massage can reduce overall stress and lower cortisol levels.

• Caution with Certain Conditions: Individuals with temporal arteritis, trigeminal neuralgia, or certain skin conditions should avoid or be cautious with temple massage.

The Science Behind Temple Pressure

For many, the first instinct when a headache strikes is to press or rub their temples. This isn't just a random act—it's rooted in several physiological mechanisms. At its core, this action leverages the body's natural pain modulation system, a concept known as the Gate Control Theory of Pain. In simple terms, this theory suggests that non-painful input, like gentle pressure or touch, can close the "gates" to pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain.

The Role of Muscles and Nerves

The temples are home to the temporalis muscle, a large, fan-shaped muscle that plays a key role in chewing and clenching the jaw. Stress, eye strain, and poor posture can cause this muscle to tighten, leading to what is commonly known as a tension headache. Massaging the temples helps relax this tense muscle tissue, which in turn can ease the pain associated with the headache. The area also contains various nerve bundles, and the applied pressure can stimulate these nerve endings, sending touch signals that effectively compete with the pain signals for the brain's attention.

Acupressure and Energy Flow

Drawing on principles of traditional Chinese medicine, the temples contain specific pressure points, including the M-HN-9 (Tai Yang) point. These points are believed to be hubs where energy (or qi) flows. By applying pressure, acupressure aims to release blockages and promote the healthy flow of energy, leading to pain relief. This also helps increase localized blood circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the area while flushing out waste products that may contribute to pain.

How to Properly Massage Your Temples

For effective and safe relief, it's important to use the correct technique. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide:

1. Find a comfortable position. Sit upright in a quiet, calm environment. Close your eyes and take a few deep, slow breaths to begin relaxing your mind and body.
2. Locate the pressure points. Place your fingertips (usually the index and middle fingers) on the soft depressions of your temples, located on each side of your head between the outer edge of your eyebrows and the hairline.
3. Apply gentle, firm pressure. Begin with light pressure and gradually increase it until you feel a tender spot, but not so much that it causes pain. Use your fingertips to make small, circular motions.
4. Massage in circular motions. Continue the circular massage for 30 to 60 seconds. You can either massage both temples simultaneously or focus on one at a time.
5. Expand the massage. You can extend the massage from your temples to other areas that hold tension, such as the back of your jaw or the base of your skull. This can help address referred pain from clenching or poor posture.
6. Release and repeat. Slowly release the pressure. Take a few more deep breaths. You can repeat this process as needed throughout the day.

Types of Headaches Temple Massage Can Help

Not all headaches are the same, and temple massage is most effective for certain types.

• Tension Headaches: This is the most common type of headache that temple massage addresses. It is caused by muscle contractions in the head and neck, often triggered by stress, anxiety, or fatigue.
• Stress-Induced Headaches: Similar to tension headaches, these are directly caused by physical and mental stress. The act of massaging the temples can have a calming effect, reducing stress and subsequently the headache.
• Eyestrain Headaches: Spending long hours looking at screens or performing other visually intensive tasks can cause eye and facial muscles to tense. Temple massage can help release this muscular tension.
• Migraine Relief: While less universally effective for all migraine sufferers, some find temple massage can help reduce the intensity and duration of attacks. However, some migraine sufferers are sensitive to touch and may find it worsens their pain.

Cautions: When to Avoid or Be Cautious with Temple Massage

While generally safe, there are some instances where temple massage should be approached with caution or avoided altogether.

Condition	Description	Caution
Temporal Arteritis	Inflammation of the arteries in the head, including the temples, that can lead to vision loss or stroke.	AVOID massage. Seek urgent medical care if you experience severe pain, tenderness in the temples, jaw pain while eating, or vision changes.
Trigeminal Neuralgia	A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face, which can be triggered by touch.	Avoid stimulation during flare-ups. Consult a doctor before attempting any massage therapy.
Pregnancy	Certain acupressure points are believed to be contraindicated during pregnancy.	While the Tai Yang point is not typically one of these, always consult a doctor before using any form of acupressure during pregnancy.
Skin Conditions	Rashes, open wounds, or blistering on the temples.	Avoid massaging the affected area to prevent irritation or infection.
Severe Head Trauma	A violent blow to the head that fractures the temporal bone can cause a life-threatening epidural hematoma.	Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headache, vision changes, confusion, or loss of consciousness after head trauma.

Complementary Techniques for Headache Relief

For maximum relief, you can combine temple massage with other self-care strategies.

• Hydration: Dehydration is a common cause of headaches. Drinking a glass of water before or during a headache can help immensely.
• Deep Breathing: The simple act of deep, slow breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
• Other Acupressure Points: Consider massaging other points known for headache relief, such as LI-4 (between the thumb and index finger) or GB-20 (at the base of the skull).
• Rest: Lying down in a quiet, dark room for a short period can help your body fully relax and recover.

Conclusion

Pressing your temples is a powerful, intuitive self-care practice that can offer significant relief from tension headaches and stress. It works by stimulating nerve endings, relaxing tight muscles, and increasing local circulation. By understanding the underlying science and employing the correct technique, you can harness this simple method to ease discomfort. However, it's crucial to be aware of the signs of more serious conditions, such as temporal arteritis, where temple pressure should be avoided. For persistent or severe pain, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action. For more information on nerve-related conditions, consult a reliable source like the Mayo Clinic website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pressing your temples safe for everyone?

While generally safe for most people experiencing common tension headaches, pressing your temples should be avoided or approached with caution if you have conditions like temporal arteritis, trigeminal neuralgia, or open skin wounds in the area. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent pain.

Can pressing temples help with migraines?

Some individuals with migraines may find relief from temple massage, while others, who are sensitive to touch during attacks, may find it worsens their symptoms. It is most effective for tension and stress-induced headaches.

How long should I press my temples for relief?

For effective relief, gently and firmly massage the temples in small, circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds. You can repeat this process as needed, ensuring you are not causing any pain or discomfort.

Why do my temples feel sore after massaging them?

Mild soreness or tenderness can be a normal side effect of deep massage, especially if the temporal muscles were very tense. However, if soreness persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.

Can I use an oil or balm when pressing my temples?

Yes, using a small amount of a soothing oil or balm, such as peppermint or lavender oil, can enhance the relaxing effect. Just be mindful of any skin sensitivities and avoid getting it in your eyes.

What is the pressure point on the temple called?

In traditional Chinese medicine, the pressure point located in the tender depression on the temple, between the outer end of the eyebrow and the eye, is known as the Tai Yang (M-HN-9) point.

Does temple massage improve hair growth?

While scalp massage, in general, can increase blood flow to hair follicles and potentially stimulate hair growth, the primary benefit of temple massage is headache and tension relief, not hair growth.