Why Migraines Are More Than Just “Bad Headaches” — An Expert Weighs In

Tension in your temples, pulsing pain behind your eyes, and an overwhelming urge to find a dark room—migraines can make everyday tasks feel impossible. According to the World Health Organization, migraines rank among the top debilitating conditions globally, affecting over one billion people each year.

Despite readily available medications, many people still struggle to find lasting relief. Michael Ward, a public-health-focused researcher specializing in migraines for more than 20 years, sees firsthand how these attacks derail lives:

“Some of my patients lose days every month. The pain alone is bad, but the unpredictability makes it worse—you never know when a severe headache might strike.”

— Michael Ward

Ward’s dedication to preventive care and comprehensive wellness has led him to explore solutions that go beyond prescription drugs, often focusing on lifestyle adjustments and self-care methods.

5 Common Mistakes That Can Make Your Headache Pain Worse

In his consultations, Michael Ward identifies five pitfalls that often make headaches or migraines more severe:

1. 1. Ignoring Early Signs. Mild headaches can quickly escalate if you try to “push through” them.

1. 1. Relying Only on Medication. Overuse can lead to rebound headaches, making the cycle worse.

1. 1. Neglecting Hydration & Nutrition. Dehydration or skipping meals is a hidden trigger for many.

1. 1. Irregular Sleep Patterns. Too little or too much sleep can fuel migraines.

1. 1. Not Managing Stress. Tension in the neck and shoulders exacerbates head pain.

“Addressing these can significantly cut both frequency and intensity,” Ward says.

The Underrated Solution That’s Changing Lives

While most people turn to over-the-counter or prescription drugs, there’s a growing focus on a holistic, body-centric method that Ward calls “underused but highly promising” for headaches and migraines: acupressure.

A Patient’s Hopeful Turnaround

“I’ve had a migraine 24/7 since November—it never goes away, ever. BUT, just this week I tried self-acupressure sessions, and I’m suddenly hopeful.”

— Anonymous patient from Ward’s network

According to Ward, 5-minute targeted acupressure sessions can drastically reduce an acute wave of migraine pain, and consistent daily practice may help prevent severe episodes altogether.

How Acupressure Helps Relieve Headaches and Migraines

Acupressure is an ancient healing art that involves using the fingers (or specialized tools) to press key points on the skin’s surface, stimulating the body’s natural self-curative abilities. This approach can:

• Release muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders

• Improve blood circulation, easing pain intensity

• Trigger endorphin release, your body’s natural painkillers

• Promote relaxation, reducing stress (a major migraine trigger)

“It’s about engaging the body’s own healing mechanisms,” Ward explains. “The results can be surprisingly fast, and for many people, it becomes an essential part of daily headache prevention.”

Why Acupressure Shows Real Promise — The Data and Science

With over 1 billion migraine sufferers worldwide, experts continually evaluate treatments that improve quality of life while minimizing side effects. Recent studies show:

• Acupuncture-based methods (including acupressure) can significantly reduce migraine frequency, intensity, and duration.

• Self-administered acupressure consistently practiced has been associated with fewer headache days and shorter attacks.

• Participants in certain trials report a 50% reduction in headache severity after six weeks of regular point stimulation.

Ward emphasizes that technique and consistency are crucial: “Acupressure can be powerful, but it has to be done properly and regularly to see real, lasting results.”

A Practical Way to Get Started: The Easiest Solution for Daily Self-Acupressure

Ward believes getting proper guidance is vital, which is why he tested a new tool called Pressure Points Guide APP—an ad-free platform designed for step-by-step self-acupressure. Impressed by its clarity and adaptive approach, he now recommends it to patients interested in a holistic method and wanting to minimize drug consumption.

“Unfortunatly, it’s a only paid access app, but it’s worth every penny,” Ward shares. “They offer lifetime access so you can support ongoing development, and honestly, with all the sessions it includes—migraines, stress relief, energy boosts, better sleep, even digestion support—it’s easily worth more than they’re charging.”

Pressure Points Guide APP highlights:

• Tailored Routines: Personalized to your body type, age, and headache patterns.

• Visual Guidance: Exact instructions on where, how firmly, and how long to press.

• 5-Minute Sessions: Perfect for busy schedules—plenty of users use it at the first sign of migraine.

• Multiple Session Types: Beyond migraine relief, it offers programs for stress relief, energy boosts, faster sleep onset, digestive improvement, and more.

Exact Self-Acupressure Protocol for Quick Migraine Relief

Below is a basic sequence taken from the same approach used in the Pressure Points Guide APP. The app itself contains additional variations and more advanced sequences, but this one is easy to follow and highly effective for many people:

1. Union Valley (LI4)

• Located between your thumb and index finger.

• Apply firm pressure or massage in a circular motion for about 1 minute on each hand.

2. Heaven’s Pillar

• About half an inch below the base of your skull, on the rope-like muscles on either side of the spine.

• Use your thumbs to press gently for 60 seconds.

3. Third Eye Point

• Between the eyebrows, where your forehead meets the bridge of your nose.

• Gently press for 30–60 seconds to help relieve eye strain and frontal headaches.

Perform all three points in a 5-minute session whenever you feel a migraine or headache coming on. For preventive benefits, try it daily. Consistency matters—especially if you want to see a reduction in the frequency of attacks.

Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your Headaches, One Step at a Time

Migraines are complex, often triggered by multiple factors. Michael Ward’s 20+ years of research confirm that medication can be invaluable for some, but it’s not the only route. For those open to a holistic, hands-on approach, acupressure can be a game-changer.

Disclaimer: While acupressure can be an excellent complementary therapy, it’s not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you have chronic or severe migraines, consult a healthcare professional.

Ready to Start With Daily Acupressure?

Give the quick protocol above a try, and if you want an even easier, guided method, consider Pressure Points APP—now recommended by Michael Ward for those seeking a low-hassle solution. It’s a paid app, but as Ward says, it’s well worth the price—especially considering the range of sessions offered. Just 5 minutes of correctly applied pressure can often mean the difference between a mild headache and a debilitating migraine, making it well worth the small effort to learn and practice.