Massage Therapy to Ease Headaches

massage therapy for headaches

We have all experienced the pain and discomfort of headaches. Whether it is caused by tension, sinus pressure, or a chronic migraine, headache pain can make it almost impossible to carry on with daily activities. Over-the-counter remedies are often ineffective, and prescription medications can leave you feeling groggy. Recent studies show that massage therapy can be an effective tool for reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of headaches.

Massage as a Preventative Therapy:

Stress can cause tension to build up in our muscles. Over time, this can cause muscle spasms and painful trigger points that can lead to tension or migraine headaches. Regular massages help to lower stress levels and relax tight muscles, which can reduce your chances of developing a headache.

Massage for Symptom Relief:

Massage is also an effective way to relieve the pressure associated with stress-related headaches. Migraine and tension headache sufferers often see their pain level decrease after getting a massage focused on the head, shoulders, and neck.

How Massage Improves Headache Symptoms:

Besides lowering stress levels and promoting optimal levels of relaxation, massage is believed to reduce the frequency of headaches in the following ways:

• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances have been linked to the development of migraines. Recent studies show that individuals experience a better quality of sleep for up to three weeks following a massage.
• Low serotonin levels are believed to trigger migraines in some individuals. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating appetite, mood, and sensory perception. When your serotonin levels are low, the blood vessels in the brain can start to swell, which can trigger a headache. Massage is an effective way to increase your serotonin levels naturally.
• Massage therapy stimulates your central nervous system, which can help optimize your body’s natural healing abilities.

Quick Massage Techniques You Can Try:

The next time you feel the first twinges of a headache, this simple technique may help you stop the pain in its tracks:
• Place your thumbs along your cheekbones near your ears.
• With your fingers, start rubbing your temples in a circular motion using firm pressure.
• Using the same circular motion, slowly move your fingers to massage along your hairline until you reach the middle of your forehead.
• Keeping repeating the process until you massage your entire scalp and forehead.

Massage Therapy in Idaho Falls:

For more information about our massage services or to schedule an appointment, give us a call today.

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