Where to Massage Head for Sinus Headache?

Complete Guide to Pressure Points & Relief

Sinus headaches can cause a deep, heavy pressure in the forehead, around the eyes, cheeks, and sometimes even the upper teeth. Many patients describe it as a “fullness” in the face that worsens when bending forward. If you’re searching for where to massage head for sinus headache, this detailed guide will explain the exact areas, techniques, and science behind sinus massage — plus when to seek medical care.

By Dr. Sagar Rajkuwar, ENT Specialist, Nashik, Maharashtra, India

🌐 www.entspecialistinnashik.com

As an ENT perspective, massage can provide temporary relief in mild sinus pressure, especially when combined with steam inhalation and proper hydration. However, understanding the cause of sinus pain is equally important.

 

Understanding Sinus Headache

Before learning massage techniques, it helps to understand what causes sinus headache.

Your sinuses are air-filled cavities located in facial bones:

• Frontal sinuses – in the forehead

• Maxillary sinuses – in the cheeks

• Ethmoid sinuses – between the eyes

• Sphenoid sinuses – deeper behind the nose

When these sinuses become inflamed due to infection, allergy, or blockage, mucus builds up. This creates pressure inside the sinus cavities, leading to pain and heaviness.

Common Symptoms of Sinus Headache

• Facial pressure or pain

• Forehead heaviness

• Pain around eyes

• Cheek pain

• Upper tooth pain

• Nasal congestion

• Pain that worsens when bending forward

Massage targets these pressure areas to improve circulation and drainage.

 

Where to Massage Head for Sinus Headache?

Let’s go step-by-step through the most effective sinus massage points.

 

1. Forehead Area (Frontal Sinus Massage)

Best for: Forehead pain and pressure above eyebrows.

The frontal sinuses are located just above your eyebrows. When inflamed, they cause pressure in the upper face.

Technique:

1. Place your index and middle fingers above your eyebrows.

2. Apply gentle circular pressure.

3. Move from center outward toward temples.

4. Continue for 1–2 minutes.

This may help reduce tension and encourage sinus drainage.

 

2. Between the Eyebrows (Glabella Pressure Point)

This point lies between your eyebrows and is commonly used in acupressure therapy.

Best for: Pressure between eyes and upper nose.

Technique:

1. Use your thumb.

2. Apply firm but comfortable pressure.

3. Hold for 10 seconds.

4. Release slowly.

5. Repeat 5–8 times.

This area corresponds to ethmoid sinus pressure and may help relieve central facial heaviness.

 

3. Side of Nose & Cheeks (Maxillary Sinus Massage)

The maxillary sinuses are located inside your cheekbones. They are the most commonly affected sinuses.

Best for: Cheek pain, upper jaw pain, tooth discomfort.

Technique:

1. Place fingers beside your nostrils.

2. Gently slide downward toward cheekbones.

3. Use circular motions.

4. Continue for 2–3 minutes.

You may feel mild tenderness — this is common if sinuses are inflamed.

 

4. Temples

Although temples are commonly linked with tension headaches, they also help relieve sinus pressure.

Technique:

1. Place fingertips on both temples.

2. Massage in slow circular motion.

3. Breathe deeply while massaging.

4. Continue for 1–2 minutes.

This relaxes surrounding facial muscles and improves blood flow.

 

5. Base of Skull (Occipital Area)

Sinus headaches can radiate backward due to muscle tension.

Technique:

1. Interlock fingers behind your head.

2. Place thumbs at base of skull.

3. Apply upward pressure.

4. Hold for 5–10 seconds.

5. Repeat several times.

This reduces neck muscle tightness that often accompanies sinus pain.

 

6. Under the Eyes (Infraorbital Massage)

Best for: Pressure below eyes and cheek fullness.

Technique:

1. Place index fingers under eyes on cheekbones.

2. Apply gentle upward pressure.

3. Massage in small circular movements.

4. Continue for 1–2 minutes.

Be gentle — this area is sensitive.

 

7-Minute Complete Sinus Massage Routine

Follow this daily routine for mild sinus pressure:

1. Forehead – 1 minute

2. Between eyebrows – 30 seconds

3. Cheeks – 2 minutes

4. Under eyes – 1 minute

5. Temples – 1 minute

6. Base of skull – 1–2 minutes

Total time: 6–7 minutes

For best results:

• Sit upright

• Use gentle pressure

• Combine with steam inhalation afterward

 

How Does Sinus Massage Work?

Massage helps by:

1. Improving Blood Circulation

Better blood flow reduces inflammation and promotes healing.

2. Encouraging Drainage

Gentle pressure may stimulate sinus openings, allowing mucus to move.

3. Relaxing Facial Muscles

Sinus pain often worsens due to muscle tension around the forehead and jaw.

4. Activating Parasympathetic Response

Massage can reduce stress, which indirectly reduces headache severity.

 

When Massage Is Most Effective

Sinus massage works best for:

• Mild sinus congestion

• Allergy-related sinus pressure

• Weather-related sinus heaviness

• Early-stage sinus inflammation

• Tension + sinus mixed headache

 

When Massage Will Not Help

Massage is NOT enough if you have:

• High fever

• Thick green/yellow discharge

• Severe facial swelling

• Double vision

• Persistent symptoms beyond 10 days

• Severe worsening headache

These may indicate bacterial sinusitis or complications requiring medical treatment.

 

Difference Between Sinus Headache and Migraine

Many patients mistake migraine for sinus headache.

If massage doesn’t relieve pain and symptoms include nausea or light sensitivity, migraine may be the cause.

 

Additional Home Remedies to Combine with Massage

For better relief, combine massage with:

Steam Inhalation

Warm steam helps loosen mucus.

Saline Nasal Spray

Clears nasal passages safely.

Warm Compress

Place over cheeks and forehead.

Hydration

Drink adequate water to thin mucus.

Humidifier

Prevents dryness in air-conditioned environments.

 

Can Massage Prevent Sinus Headaches?

Massage may reduce frequency in people with:

• Chronic sinus congestion

• Allergic rhinitis

• Recurrent sinus pressure

However, prevention depends on treating the root cause such as:

• Allergy control

• Nasal polyps

• Deviated septum

• Chronic sinusitis

 

Safety Tips While Doing Sinus Massage

• Do not apply excessive pressure

• Avoid if skin infection is present

• Stop if severe pain occurs

• Avoid massaging swollen eye areas

• Wash hands before touching face

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I massage for sinus headache?

Once or twice daily during active symptoms is sufficient.

Can massage cure sinus infection?

No. Massage only provides temporary relief and does not treat bacterial infection.

How long does it take to feel relief?

Some people feel relief within 5–10 minutes, especially if congestion is mild.

 

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering where to massage head for sinus headache, focus on:

✔ Forehead
✔ Between eyebrows
✔ Cheeks
✔ Under eyes
✔ Temples
✔ Base of skull

A structured 5–7 minute sinus massage routine can provide temporary relief from pressure and heaviness. However, persistent or severe symptoms require evaluation by an ENT specialist.

Early diagnosis ensures faster recovery and prevents complications.

 

✅ Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you have severe, persistent, or worsening symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare provider.

---

 

 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL ON Can Sinus Infection Cause Hair Loss PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL ON Symptoms of Perforated Sinus After Tooth Extraction PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL ON Sinusitis in Hindi PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL ON How to rid of a sinus infection headache PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION.

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Deficiency Causes Sinusitis? Vitamins Linked to Sinus Infections PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Can You Smell a Fungal Sinus Infection? ENT Warning Signs PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Mimics Sinus Issues? 15 Conditions That Feel Like Sinusitis PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Are the 4 Cardinal Signs of Sinusitis? ENT Expert Guide PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL When to Go to A&E With Sinusitis? Emergency Warning Signs PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

 

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL How to Get Rid of a Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics (ENT Doctor Guide) PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL How Do Doctors Drain Sinuses Without Surgery? ENT Guide PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL How To Tell If Sinus Infection Has Spread To Brain? Signs Explained by an ENT Doctor PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Can Sinusitis Affect Your Ears? Ear Pain, Pressure & Hearing Loss PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

 

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Can Sinusitis Affect Your Ears? Ear Pain, Pressure & Hearing Loss PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL How to Tell If a Sinus Infection Has Spread to the Bone (Serious Warning Signs) PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Can Be Mistaken for a Sinus Infection? | ENT Doctor PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Red Flags for Sinusitis: Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Triggers Sinusitis Headaches? Causes & Relief Explained PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Signs Your Sinus Infection Is Getting Better (Day-by-Day Recovery Guide) PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Signs Of Sinus Infection Getting Better With Antibiotics. PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Tablet: Best Medicines for Fast Relief PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL End Stages of a Sinus Infection: Symptoms You Should Never Ignore PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Can A Sinus Infection Cause Eye Pain? ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Sinusitis? ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Sinus Headaches? ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Symptoms: How to Tell If Your Head Pain Is From Sinusess PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Symptoms One Side: ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Back of Head: ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Symptoms & Home Remedies That Really Work PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Right Side Sinus Headache – Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Headache Symptoms & Home Remedies That Really Work PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL When Should Parents Worry About Headaches in Children? ENT Doctor Explains PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-

FOR INFORMATION IN GREAT DETAIL Sinus Mucocele Symptoms – Early Signs, Eye & Brain Risks PL CLICK ON THE LINK GIVEN BELOW-It is always better to view links from laptop/desktop rather than mobile phone as they may not be seen from mobile phone.  ,in case of technical difficulties you need to copy paste this link in google search. In case if you are viewing this blog from mobile phone you need to click on the three dots on the right upper corner of your mobile screen and ENABLE DESKTOP VERSION-