Acupressure for Tinnitus: Points for Ringing in the Ears
Tinnitus — a ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears — is a symptom, not a disease, and it can be frustrating. A few points around the skull base, head, and hands are traditionally used to ease the sensation of fullness and support relaxation. This is comfort care, not a cure, and the first step for persistent tinnitus is a proper ear and hearing evaluation.
Research Note: Evidence for acupressure in tinnitus is limited and inconsistent. Some small studies report modest relief of the perceived loudness or distress, but results are mixed. Think of it as a relaxation-based coping tool rather than a proven treatment.
Which Acupressure Points Help With Tinnitus?
The points below are the ones most commonly used for this goal. Each links to a full guide with location, technique, and safety notes.
1. GB20 (Fengchi) - Wind Pool
GB20 at the base of the skull is traditionally used to clear the head and ears and release tension that often accompanies tinnitus.
How to Use GB20
Location: In the hollows at the base of the skull, between the two vertical neck muscles. GB20 guide.
Technique: Press upward into the skull-base depressions with both thumbs for 1-2 minutes.
Which Acupressure Points Help With Tinnitus?
The points below are the ones most commonly used for this goal. Each links to a full guide with location, technique, and safety notes.
2. GV20 (Baihui) - Hundred Meetings
GV20 at the crown is traditionally used to clear the head and support a calmer nervous system, which can lower the distress tinnitus causes.
Location: On the midline of the head, about two finger-widths behind the hairline at the top of the skull. GV20 guide.
Technique: Gentle steady pressure with the fingertips for 1-2 minutes.
Which Acupressure Points Help With Tinnitus?
The points below are the ones most commonly used for this goal. Each links to a full guide with location, technique, and safety notes.
3. LI4 (Hegu) - Joining Valley
LI4 on the hand is a broad regulatory point traditionally used for head and face sensations, including ear discomfort.
Location: In the webbing between the thumb and index finger. LI4 guide.
Technique: Squeeze the webbing firmly for 1-2 minutes per hand.
Which Acupressure Points Help With Tinnitus?
The points below are the ones most commonly used for this goal. Each links to a full guide with location, technique, and safety notes.
4. LV3 (Taichong) - Great Surge
LV3 on the foot is traditionally used to move stagnant energy and release tension that many people carry in the head and jaw.
Location: On the top of the foot, in the hollow between the first and second toes. LV3 guide.
Technique: Press firmly into the hollow for 1-2 minutes on each foot.
Which Acupressure Points Help With Tinnitus?
The points below are the ones most commonly used for this goal. Each links to a full guide with location, technique, and safety notes.
5. PC6 (Neiguan) - Inner Gate
PC6 on the inner forearm is traditionally used to calm the nervous system, which can reduce the stress and anxiety tinnitus often amplifies.
Location: About three finger-widths above the inner wrist crease, between the two forearm tendons. PC6 guide.
Technique: Press firmly for 1-2 minutes on each arm, breathing slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it stop the ringing?
For most people it will not make tinnitus vanish. It may lower the tension and distress around it. Lasting relief depends on treating the underlying cause, which is why an ear exam matters.
When should I see a doctor?
See a clinician promptly for tinnitus with sudden hearing loss, dizziness, facial weakness, one-sided ringing, or pulsatile (rhythmic) sounds. These can signal conditions that need medical attention.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Persistent tinnitus should be evaluated by a healthcare provider or audiologist.
Acupressure has been evaluated in clinical trials for pain, nausea, anxiety, and sleep, with evidence described as promising but requiring further high-quality research.
— Lee EJ, Frazier SK. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2011;42(4):589-603. PMID 21531533.
Verifiable sources
- Lee EJ, Frazier SK. The efficacy of acupressure for symptom management: a systematic review. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2011;42(4):589-603. PMID 21531533 · DOI
- Song HJ, Seo HJ, Lee H, Son H, Choi SM, Lee S. Effect of self-acupressure for symptom management: a systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2015;23(1):68-78. PMID 25637155 · DOI
Evidence for acupressure from published systematic reviews. See our research page for details.