From the Research
Applying pressure to a temporal headache provides relief because it stimulates nearby nerve fibers that block pain transmission through a mechanism called the "gate control theory of pain". This theory suggests that the activation of certain nerve fibers can override pain signals being sent to the brain, providing temporary relief from headache pain 1. When you press on the temporal artery, located on the side of your head, you compress the blood vessels that may be dilated and causing pain. However, research suggests that temporal muscle blood flow is not significantly different in patients with chronic tension-type headache compared to healthy controls, making it unlikely that temporal muscle ischemia is the cause of muscle tenderness and pain in these patients 2.
The manual pressure may also help relax tense muscles in the area, which often contribute to temporal headaches. Studies have shown that patients with chronic tension-type headache have decreased pain perception thresholds, suggesting that dysmodulation of nociceptive impulses and sensitized nociceptors may play a role in the development of these headaches 1. Additionally, the pressure activates mechanoreceptors in the skin that can override pain signals, providing further relief. For immediate relief, you can apply firm but gentle pressure with your fingertips to the temples for 5-10 seconds at a time, repeating as needed. While this technique offers temporary relief, persistent or severe headaches should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, as they may require proper diagnosis and specific treatment.
Some studies have investigated the effects of stress on noxious inhibition and temporal summation in tension-type headache, finding that stress does not appear to aggravate abnormal temporal summation or diffuse noxious inhibitory control mechanisms in these patients 3. Other research has examined the role of extracranial vascular changes during headache, exercise, and stress, finding that scalp arteries dilate readily in a subgroup of patients during these conditions, but this is not essential for migraine 4. However, these findings do not directly relate to the mechanism of relief provided by applying pressure to a temporal headache.
In terms of treatment, while conservative measures are often undertaken first, some patients may require more specific interventions, such as epidural blood patch or surgery, to address underlying conditions like spontaneous intracranial hypotension 5. However, these treatments are not directly related to the application of pressure for relief of temporal headaches. Overall, the most effective way to provide relief from temporal headaches is to apply firm but gentle pressure to the temples, taking care not to exacerbate the condition.