top of page
Search

Understanding Migraines & How to Calm the Trigeminal Nerve for Lasting Relief

Updated: Nov 13, 2024



Migraines are a complex, often debilitating condition, and many people are unaware of the physiology behind them, particularly how the trigeminal nerve influences migraine pain. This blog will break down what happens in the body during a migraine, with a focus on the trigeminal nerve, and offer effective ways to calm and soothe it to help reduce pain. Additionally, we’ll cover some acupressure points that can be used as natural remedies to bring relief and prevent future episodes.


The Trigeminal Nerve and Its Role in Migraines

The trigeminal nerve, one of the largest nerves in the head, has three main branches that extend to the forehead, cheeks, and jaw. It plays a crucial role in sensation, sending pain and touch signals from the face to the brain. When this nerve becomes overactive or stimulated, it can lead to severe headaches and migraines, as well as symptoms like facial tenderness, light sensitivity, and nausea.



During a migraine, the trigeminal nerve releases neuropeptides—molecules that cause inflammation and dilate blood vessels. This dilation increases pressure in the head and exacerbates migraine pain. So, calming this nerve and reducing inflammation can help significantly in managing migraine symptoms.


Techniques to Calm and Soothe the Trigeminal Nerve

  1. Cold Therapy: Applying a cold compress to the forehead and temples can constrict blood vessels, reducing inflammation around the trigeminal nerve. A simple ice pack wrapped in a cloth applied for 15–20 minutes may help.

  2. Warm Therapy: Alternatively, applying a warm compress to the neck and shoulders relaxes tight muscles that may be indirectly irritating the trigeminal nerve. A warm shower or heating pad works well too.

  3. Deep Breathing and Relaxation Exercises: Stress is a known trigger for migraines. Breathing exercises, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing, reduce stress and can help calm the nervous system, including the trigeminal nerve.

  4. Massage Therapy: Gentle massage on the neck, scalp, and shoulders can relieve tension and help reduce trigeminal nerve activation. Techniques that incorporate light pressure around the temples and jawline also help ease nerve irritation.

  5. Acupressure Therapy: Acupressure uses pressure points to relieve pain and restore balance in the body. By working specific points, we can help calm the trigeminal nerve and ease migraines.


Acupressure Points to Alleviate Migraine Pain

Acupressure is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve tension, pain, and stress. By targeting particular acupoints associated with headaches, we can calm the trigeminal nerve and relieve migraine symptoms.


Here are three points that are especially effective for migraines:

Stomach 7 (Xiaguan)

  • Location: In the lower part of the cheek, just in front of the ear, where the upper and lower jaws meet.

  • How to Use: With gentle pressure, use your thumb or index finger to massage this point in a circular motion for about 1–2 minutes. Xiaguan helps alleviate jaw tension, a common cause of migraines, and reduces inflammation around the trigeminal nerve.


Gallbladder 3 (Shangguan)

  • Location: Just above Stomach 7, this point is located in front of the ear, along the temple.

  • How to Use: Using light pressure, massage this point in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes on each side. Gallbladder 3 is effective in relieving headaches, eye strain, and tension in the face and jaw.


Large Intestine 4 (Hegu)

  • Location: On the back of the hand, between the thumb and index finger.

  • Caution: This point is contraindicated in pregnancy, so it should not be used by pregnant individuals.

  • How to Use: Apply firm pressure with your opposite thumb, massaging in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes. This point is known for its effectiveness in relieving general pain and inflammation, making it highly useful for migraine relief.


By regularly using these acupressure points, many people find they can reduce migraine frequency and intensity. Combined with other techniques like massage, cold therapy, and relaxation exercises, acupressure can be a powerful, drug-free way to manage migraine symptoms.


Lifestyle Tips to Support Trigeminal Nerve Health and Reduce Migraines

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day.

  • Get Quality Sleep: Sleep helps reset the nervous system, including the trigeminal nerve. Aim for 7–9 hours of restful sleep each night.

  • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can trigger migraines in certain individuals, so moderating intake can help prevent headaches.

  • Manage Stress: Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques can reduce overall stress, which in turn reduces trigeminal nerve irritation.


Conclusion

Migraines are challenging, but understanding the trigeminal nerve’s role offers valuable insights into why these headaches occur and how to manage them. By incorporating techniques like cold and warm therapy, targeted acupressure, and lifestyle changes, you can calm the trigeminal nerve and help keep migraines at bay.


If you’re struggling with migraines and want to explore these techniques further, consider scheduling a consultation or treatment session with Full Circle Vitality, where we specialize in multiple techniques and modalities, including acupressure.

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • TikTok

©1995-2024 by Full Circle Vitality.

bottom of page