How Does Ear Reflexology Work in Reducing Pain?

Ear reflexology aims to relieve tension in different body areas by finding the pressure points inside and outside the ear. Many people claim that this alternative healing technique is effective as the ear contains nerve endings connected to several body parts, including the central nervous system. Furthermore, ear reflexology has been used to manage tooth pain. Reflexologists believe that they can provide temporary relief for pain caused by infection and decay with the right amount of pressure. However, dentists state that it’s still essential to address the root cause of the pain. Visit their website here if your teeth keep hurting even after an ear reflexology session.

Ear Pressure Points

While the efficacy of acupressure is yet to be proven, some studies suggest that with the correct pressure and skills, it can reduce pain and tension all over the body. Applying pressure in ear points (known as auricular pressure points) may help manage headaches, earaches, tinnitus, and various pains.

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been around for thousands of years. Some of its benefits include reduced stress, improved health, boosted energy and physical strength, and relaxation.

The primary technique used in reflex healing involves massage therapy, where the hands and fingers apply the necessary pressure to specific body parts. The pressure will then stimulate the body to self-heal.

Ear Apex

The ear apex is located at the top of the ear. According to studies, applying pressure to auricular pressure points can promote healing. People believe that conditions like migraines, chronic headaches, and earaches can be treated when the ear pressure points are stimulated.

Daith Point

The daith point can be found right at the opening of the ear. Some people believe that piercing it can treat migraine as the pressure in the head is being released through the hole. However, this belief still needs scientific support up to this writing.

Temples

Applying pressure to the temples is an effective way to reduce earache and headaches. Just like daith point, there is still no solid proof to this claim. However, many people say that their head pain and earaches have been treated by applying pressure to the temples.

Ear Gate

The ear gate can be found in the area where the ear lobes begin or the outer ear. It’s been said that auricular therapy on the ear gate can help manage aches brought by tinnitus and migraine.

Ear Reflexology Charts

Ear reflexology maps the entire body onto the corresponding ear. The ear reflexology map shows that massaging the reflex points can bring relief when a particular body part is in pain or distress.

For instance, if you have neck pain, try to massage the big curve in the middle of your ear, do this gently and avoid pinching too hard.

The upper part of the ear below the edge is called the Shen Men point. The right amount of pinching can reduce a person’s headache, stress, and inflammation. The treatment also works for fever, high blood pressure, and cough.

Scientific Explanations

Your headache could be related to sinus inflammation. When the pressure gets stuck in the sinus cavities, the ears will feel stuffed and lead to the painful throbbing in temple areas and behind the ears. Acupressure, foot reflexology, ear massage, massage therapy, and acupuncture have been around for centuries.

These alternative healing techniques are based on particular points on the body. Some evidence shows that acupressure helps manage specific health conditions related to the sinus area and ear canal. Acupressure applies pressure on targeted areas with the use of acupuncture needles.

The evidence for the efficacy of ear reflexology, massage therapy, and other holistic medicine is substantially anecdotal. However, some studies suggest that massage can stimulate pressure points and manage headaches and pains at once.

If you suspect that your aches are due to allergic reactions, stress, or sinus congestion, massage or acupressure may be a safe option for you to try.

Benefits of Ear Massage

As mentioned, finding the reflexology points to relieve pain is the primary purpose of ear reflexology. But apart from that, this therapy also promotes other benefits, including:

• It helps you relax. Our lifestyle often brings us physical and emotional stress. And sometimes, our stress triggers cause a psychological impact on us. Luckily, ear massage can offer treatment that will help you revitalize your energy and make you feel calm at the same time.
• Relieves muscle tension. According to research, a gentle rub or pull of the ear lobes can activate the nerve endings that promote the production of endorphins. Endorphins (happy hormones) help in soothing aches.
• Helps in weight loss. It’s not easy to lose weight. Sometimes, even with regular physical activities and a healthy diet, achieving your weight goal is still quite a challenge. Practitioners believe that rubbing specific points in the ear can help in reducing weight.
• Sleepless nights? Rub it away. To sleep well, we need to have a clear and relaxed mind. But sleep disorders like insomnia make it hard to sleep through the night. Try to massage the reflex points of your ear before tucking into bed at night.

Summary

In general, ear reflexology may need a few more studies to prove its effectiveness. However, no research states that it’s unsafe and harmful to the body. It can be a safe treatment, especially if you do not have any diseases. Overall, opting for the holistic approach is a personal choice. Just be sure to choose a practitioner that you can trust.

References:

Can You Relieve Earaches and Headaches with Acupressure? (https://www.healthline.com/health/pressure-points-for-ears)

The 10 best pressure points for ears (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ear-pressure-points)

6 health benefits of ear massage that will force you to do it the right away (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/de-stress/6-health-benefits-of-ear-massage-that-will-force-you-to-do-it-the-right-away/photostory/76961541.cms)