Sinus Massage: Step-by-Step Guide
Published January 27, 2023
The bones of the skull and face have air-filled spaces known as the paranasal sinuses. They are located in the nasal cavity and serve different purposes, including lightening the head’s weight, heating and humidifying inhaled air, enhancing the resonance of the voice, and protecting the face in the event of a head or face impact.
There are four pairs of sinuses:
- Maxillary,
- Frontal,
- Sphenoid, and
- Ethmoid.
The sinuses become clogged with mucus whenever a person is ill. This obstruction produces congestion and can result in severe pressure and headaches. While nasal sprays and medicines are available to relieve symptoms, a simple massage treatment, like on how to drain maxillary sinus, can also provide relief.
Steps on How to Drain Maxillary Sinus
The maxillary sinuses, the largest of the sinuses, are found below the cheeks on both sides of the nose. The following is a guide for massaging the maxillary sinuses to improve nasal breathing:
- Apply pressure on the area near the nose, between the cheekbones and jaw, with the index and middle fingers.
- Circulate both fingers in the direction of the ears. For a deeper massage, use the thumbs instead of the index and middle fingers.
- This sinus massage should take about 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat once or twice more.
Steps for Frontal Sinus Massage
The frontal sinuses can be found above each eye, right in the center of the forehead. Here are the steps for massaging the frontal sinuses to improve breathing and relieve sinus headaches:
- Place the tips of the index and middle fingers just above the eyebrows and rub gently in a circular motion.
- Move both fingers diagonally toward the center of the forehead before moving them slowly toward the temples.
- This sinus massage should take about 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat once or twice more.
Steps for Sphenoid and Ethmoid Sinus Massage
The sphenoid sinuses are located just below the pituitary gland on the side of the head in the sphenoid bone. The ethmoid sinuses are found within the ethmoid bone, which separates the brain from the nasal cavity.
Here’s how to massage the sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses effectively to open the sinuses, improve breathing, and minimize sinus headaches:
- Place both index fingers on the nose’s bridge, the space between the nasal bone and the eyes’ corners, and apply firm finger pressure for around 15 seconds.
- Stroke downward along the nose bridge using the index fingers.
- This sinus massage should take about 30. Repeat once or twice more if needed.
Sinus Massage as Alternative Therapy
One of the alternative therapies that can help reduce sinus pressure, headache, and congestion is a sinus massage. Additionally, the moderate pressure and warmth of the hands may increase blood flow to the targeted area. However, the massage technique, like how to drain maxillary sinus, may need to be repeated a few times to prevent mucus accumulation in the sinus again.
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About The Author
Krizzia Paolyn has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She started her career as a content writer for various digital magazines and renowned publications. It has always been her passion to share her voice, and at the same time, to encourage other people to speak up.
