Nasal obstruction can be very annoying. Massage techniques help decongest the sinuses and thus facilitate the drainage of fluids.
- The sinuses are air cavities hollowed out in the bone mass of the face.
- The sinuses can become congested with allergies, colds or flu.
- There are different self-massage techniques to decongest the sinuses.
In winter, it is not uncommon to have a blocked nose due to a cold or flu. This nasal obstruction can also be linked to allergies, particularly during the hay fever period. To remedy this, there are different tips such as using hot compresses to place on the nose or installing a humidifier in the bedroom.
In an interview given at the Cleveland ClinicVickie Bodner, massage therapist, shared several massage techniques to free the nasal cavity and thus breathe better. “Inflammation of the sinuses leads to a build-up of fluid which causes pressure (…) Certain targeted massage techniques can help decongest the sinuses and promote drainage of fluids”, explained the specialist. These sinus self-massages are based on light pressure on certain areas of the face. It is necessary to target the areas where you feel discomfort in the sinuses (forehead, cheeks, etc.) before massaging them delicately.
Blocked nose: how to massage your sinuses correctly?
The sinuses are characterized by air cavities, present in pairs, dug into the bone mass of the face. Depending on their location, we find the maxillary, frontal, sphenoidal, and ethmoidal sinuses.
There is a pressure point at the level of the frontal sinuses which facilitates the circulation of fluids. It is located near the inner corner of the eyebrows. To massage this area, it is recommended Gently move your index fingers up either side of your nose to where it begins to curve to meet the orbital bone, near your eyebrows. You may feel a slight ridge here. Exert light pressure on this area with your index fingers before releasing for a second and then repeating this gesture. You can also make very small circles in this area for five to ten seconds.
In order to decongest your sinuses, you can exert a light pinch on the frontal sinus. To do this, gently pinch your eyebrows between your thumb and index finger, starting with the inner part of your eyebrows. Hold this position for one to two seconds, and move slightly outward, toward your temples. Repeat this gesture until you reach the ends of your eyebrows.
It is also possible to exert a pressure point on the maxillary sinus. Place your index fingers along each side of your nose at the level where your nostrils meet your cheeks, and apply very light pressure for five to ten seconds. For a second, release before repeating the operation.
The benefits of a maxillary and frontal sinus massage
In the context of a blocked nose, Vickie Bodner recommends massaging the maxillary sinuses. What does this consist of? Place your index fingers at the base of your nostrils and press gently on each side. Secondly, make a circle under your cheekbones, towards your ears and up to your temples, above your eyebrows and on the sides of your nose. Make a complete circle returning to your starting point.
A frontal sinus massage can also be helpful in relieving congested sinuses. Place four fingers, except the thumb, on each of your eyebrows, at the point closest to the nose. Using your fingertips, slowly sweep the brow line from top to bottom, from the nose to the temples.
These self-massage techniques can help decongest your sinuses. However, do not hesitate to consult your doctor if you have other clinical signs such as, for example, fever. In this case, nasal congestion could be linked to a bacterial infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
