|  | Conditions Treatments | Migraines

The Effects of Massage Therapy on Migraines

Migraines are debilitating headaches caused by change in an individual's nervous system. Doctors also believe that migraines are caused by vast changes in blood flow to the head. There are many factors that contribute to migraine headaches, including hormonal changes, diet, stress levels and environmental factors. In addition to severe headaches, migraine sufferers might struggle with symptoms such as nausea, sound and light sensitivity and dizziness. Some patients who suffer from migraines turn to massage therapy to ease their pain.

  1. Benefits of Massage Therapy

    • Some patients choose massage therapy to combat their migraines because it is natural and non-invasive. The therapy quiets the central nervous system by relaxing tight muscles and reducing stress, common migraine triggers. When migraine patients consult with a medical practitioner, they discovered that over-the-counter medications might actually cause more migraines if not used properly. Natural treatments like massage therapy limit the risk of rebound headaches caused by medication. Some patients who go for massage therapy for their migraines find immediate relief. Other patients find relief after sessions that span several weeks.

    Self-Massage for Migraine Headaches

    • A patient looking for immediate relief from a migraine headache can use massage on herself to alleviate the pain. Massaging the webbing between your thumbs and pointer fingers on each hand for half a minute could help relieve some of the pain in your head. Another area to massage for pain relief is approximately 1 inch above your eyebrows. Find the small groove above your eyes and rub this area with small circular motions to alleviate pain. Another pain relief point is right next to your eyes. Use the flat part of two fingers on each hand to massage your face right next to your eyes. This relaxes you and helps the pain recede. For migraine pain in the back of your head, massage around your ear, beginning approximately 1 inch above your ear and working your way around the ear.

    Professional Massage Therapists

    • Some migraine sufferers might prefer going to a professional massage therapist for treatment. A professional therapist can teach the patient about massage techniques they can use when pain hits. A study cited in "Annals of Behavioral Medicine" found that adults who suffer from migraine headaches and went to massage therapy had a decrease in headache occurrences.

      When choosing a professional massage therapist, look for one who specializes in migraine treatment. A massage done wrong can cause more damage in the long run. Organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association offer services for finding a qualified practitioner in your location.

Migraines - Related Articles