It starts with fatigue and a dull throb on one side of your head. Soon the nausea, aura, and light sensitivity kick in. Inwardly you groan, already knowing what’s coming — another migraine.
If you suffer from migraines or tension headaches, you know this feeling all too well. Experts estimate that half of all Americans experience tension headaches, while 12% of us get full-on migraines.
When you feel a migraine coming on, you want to get rid of it ASAP. Have you ever considered getting a massage for your migraines as a viable (and all-natural) treatment option?
Keep reading to find out if massage could be an effective treatment option for your worst headaches.
Does Massage for Migraines Really Work?
The short answer is: Yes, it can!
Since migraines are caused by a variety of factors, there’s no “one size fits all” answer that will work for everybody. However, massage combats many of the common traits linked to migraines because it:
- Boosts serotonin levels in the brain
- Releases chemicals that naturally ease pain
- Relieves stress, anxiety, and muscular tension
- Improves circulation and relaxes blood vessels
- Boosts immune system response
So is this just hearsay, or can massage actually help to relieve migraine symptoms?
One study found that patients who received massage therapy as part of their treatment had shorter and less severe episodes. They also reported better quality of sleep during the weeks they received massages.
What Type of Massage Is Best for Migraines?
Since migraines affect each person differently, the answer depends on your body.
A deep tissue massage focusing on tense muscles in the neck, jaw, and upper back may work wonders for some people. For others, this kind of pressure may be too intense. A gentler, soothing Swedish massage may be more effective in helping their body relax and make their pain subside.
Another option is neuromuscular massage, also known as trigger point therapy. By targeting specific trigger points in the head, neck, hands, and feet, your therapist can send signals to your body to “calm down” and release tension.
Once you find the best type of massage for you, it’s also worth considering some enhancements that can aid in pain relief.
For example, arnica balm, a natural remedy made from the arnica plant, can effectively soothe aches, pain, and inflammation. The same is true of CBD oil — one study found that 86% of migraine sufferers found relief using CBD products.
Others swear by peppermint essential oil. There’s science to support the fact that menthol-based products can significantly reduce headache intensity.
Simply Massage offers all three options — arnica, CBD, and peppermint oil — as add-ons to your massage session. When you arrive, speak with your therapist or the receptionist to learn more!
Book a Massage & Find Relief From Migraine Pain
Migraines can make your life miserable, but there are effective, drug-free treatment options out there.
As we’ve discussed, massage for migraines can make a big difference in the frequency and duration of your headaches. Combined with CBD, arnica, or peppermint oil, you’ll be amazed by how much better you feel after your session.
The therapists at Simply Massage are ready to help you with migraines and all your other aches and pains. Give us a call at 970-748-1600 or book a session in Avon or Glenwood Springs today!