Pressing the Fengchi acupoint causes pain.

Generally, pain upon pressing the Fengchi (GB20) acupoint may be caused by overexertion, trauma, cold exposure, tension headaches, cervical spondylosis, or other conditions, and management should be based on the specific cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Overexertion

The Fengchi acupoint is located below the occipital bone, near the posterior hairline between the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. Excessive physical strain may lead to muscle injury, causing pain when the Fengchi point is pressed. This condition usually does not require specific treatment. Patients are advised to avoid heavy labor and get adequate rest.

2. Trauma

If the local area has suffered direct external impact, soft tissue damage may occur, resulting in symptoms such as pain and swelling, which may worsen with pressure. Patients can alleviate symptoms through local cold compresses (initially) or heat therapy (after the acute phase).

3. Cold Exposure

Cold exposure, often due to external pathogenic factors like wind-cold during common colds, influenza, or facial paralysis, may cause noticeable pain at the Fengchi point. Patients are advised to dress warmly, maintain body warmth, eat a light diet, and avoid further chilling to prevent symptom exacerbation.

4. Tension Headache

Prolonged negative emotions or excessive mental stress may affect peripheral nerves and lead to tension-type headaches, which may manifest as pain upon pressing the Fengchi point. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as mecobalamin dispersible tablets or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules for treatment.

5. Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is commonly caused by degenerative changes in the cervical spine or prolonged neck flexion during physical labor. Symptoms include limb numbness, neck and back pain, and muscle stiffness, which may result in pain when massaging the Fengchi point. Under a doctor’s supervision, patients may take medications such as Jingfukang granules, Jingkang capsules, or Shenjindan capsules for treatment.

In addition to the above causes, pain at the Fengchi point could also stem from serious conditions such as cerebral atherosclerosis, cerebral infarction, or intracerebral hemorrhage. It is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation upon experiencing these symptoms to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment promptly, avoiding delays in care.