Unlock the Secrets of Massage for Migraines

A migraine headache can stop life in its tracks, but there are natural solutions that can help. Studies have shown that massage for migraines can reduce occurrences of migraine pain, and, according to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), massage may even help lessen symptoms during a migraine.

According to the NIH National Library of Medicine, migraine headaches affect more than 1 billion people globally. These severe headaches are one of the most common neurologic disorders. If you are one of the millions of people in the United States who are affected by migraines, you can take steps to protect yourself by getting massage therapy. Working with the right massage therapist can help you find relief from this difficult and painful problem. 

What Is a Migraine Headache?

A migraine headache is a type of headache that causes severe throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side only. Migraine headaches can be accompanied by other symptoms including sensitivity to light, nausea, and sensitivity to noises. Migraine attacks can sometimes last for days and can be so severe that the affected individual must stay in bed the entire time. 

What Causes Migraine Headaches?

Migraine headaches can be caused by different triggers, depending on the individual. Here are some common causes of migraine headaches:

• Chemical imbalance involving serotonin, the hormone that helps regulate pain in the nervous system 
• Fluctuations in estrogen during pregnancy, menopause, or menstrual periods
• Stress
• Sensory stimuli such as loud sounds, strong smells, or bright flashing lights
• Physical exertion 
• Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives
• Changes in sleep such as getting too much or too little sleep
• Consumption of alcoholic drinks, caffeinated drinks, aged cheese, processed foods, foods that contain monosodium glutamate
• Skipping meals
• Changes in weather or barometric pressure

If you regularly experience migraine headaches, the first thing you can do to stop the problem is to identify the cause. Some people are never able to identify the cause of their migraine headaches, but keeping a log and watching for patterns may help you identify the trigger for your migraine headaches. 

What Type of Massage Is Used for Migraines?

The type of massage therapy that can be used to treat your migraine headaches depends on the cause and other factors. Everyone is different. Your massage therapist can help you find the right type of massage for your pain. 

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is a type of massage that consists of long strokes and light to moderate pressure. Many people enjoy Swedish massage for relaxation and stress relief. 

Studies about Swedish massage and its effects on migraine headaches have been inconclusive, but depending on the cause of your migraines, Swedish massage may offer relief for certain triggers. For example, it can provide stress relief and help manage sleep problems. If stress or sleep changes are among your migraine triggers, then Swedish massage may help you regulate these triggers and reduce occurrences of migraines.

Neuromuscular Massage

Also called "trigger point therapy", neuromuscular massage is a specialized form of massage that involves firm pressure over the myofascial trigger points. By applying pressure to these painful bands of muscle, the massage therapist helps release tension that can cause head and neck pain.

Massaging muscles in the body in this way helps prevent chronic headaches, especially when the patient uses a combination of strategies to help prevent triggers and manage pain. 

Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial release therapy is a deep massage therapy that helps alleviate discomfort from chronic pain, including various types of headaches. During myofascial release therapy, the massage therapist releases tension within the fascia, the connective tissue between muscles.

Myofascial release therapy is a type of long-term massage therapy that targets areas of tension, gradually guiding patients toward the goal of eliminating chronic pain. Ultimately, myofascial release therapy helps patients regain flexibility and enjoy a comfortable life once again. 

Who Benefits from Massage for Migraines?

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you may be a good candidate for massage therapy treatment. Massage for migraines is a natural, safe form of therapy that helps relax muscles and relieve whole-body tension.

Massage can be used with other forms of treatment such as medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, supplements, and lifestyle changes. If you suffer from migraines, massage is a safe and effective form of treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Massage for Migraines

When is the best time to get a massage for a migraine?

If you suffer from chronic migraine headaches, regular massage therapy can help reduce the impact of migraines over time. For some patients, weekly or bi-weekly massage therapy appointments have been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.

Talk to your massage therapist to determine the best frequency of your massage treatments. 

How can I find the right massage therapist for migraines?

If you suffer from migraines, look for a massage therapist with specific training and experience helping patients suffering from migraines. Before booking your next massage, ask the therapist about their experience helping patients who suffer from this condition. Highlands Ranch Therapeutic Massage offers several types of massage for migraines. Our evidence-based massage therapy is backed by scientific research to help reduce your pain and improve your quality of life. 

How can I tell if my headaches are migraines?

Migraine headaches vary from one person to another. Migraines tend to be so severe that the pain is often debilitating. Patients with migraine headaches may experience sensitivity to light, sound, and smells. During a migraine, many must avoid daylight, screen time, loud noises, and physical activity. Often, patients experience nausea and vomiting during their migraine headaches. 

In addition to massage therapy, is there anything else I can do to help prevent migraine headaches?

Finding the trigger for your migraine headache can help you reduce the frequency of migraines and may also help reduce the severity. Keep a log and watch for patterns to find the cause of your migraines. Sleep well and eat a healthy diet. Work with your physician to find treatment for your migraine headaches. Manage your stress through meditation, massage, and time management.

Contact Us for Massage for Migraines In Highlands Ranch, CO

Do you need treatment for migraine headaches in Highlands Ranch, CO? Contact Highlands Ranch Therapeutic Massage to make an appointment for massage for migraines. We provide several types of massage that can help reduce your pain and reduce the occurrence of migraines over time. Call today to learn more about how we can help with your migraines.