Migraines are one of the most common and debilitating types of headaches, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite their prevalence, effective treatments for migraines remain elusive for many sufferers. While prescription medications and lifestyle changes may be helpful, many people are turning to alternative therapies like massage therapy to find relief.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of massage therapy for migraine relief, including how it works, its types, and what to look for in a qualified massage therapist.
How Massage Therapy Works for Migraine
Migraines can be caused by several circumstances, making it challenging to discover an effective treatment for everyone who suffers from this sickness. However, there are several common characteristics associated with migraine onset that massage treatment might assist in counteract, such as:
Serotonin Levels Are Increased
Migraines are thought to be associated with low serotonin levels. Massage therapy can help boost serotonin levels, improving mood and relieving migraine symptoms.
Tension is Released
Massage treatment, particularly head massages, has been utilized to decrease tension, which aids in the relief of migraine symptoms. This tension release often happens right away during a massage session.
Pain Signals Are Reduced
Massage therapy is used to treat a variety of ailments, including migraines. Some types of massage release pain-relieving chemicals that help to lower pain signals to the brain, which is thought to minimize the number of migraines in the future.
Although there has been little clinical research on massage treatment and migraine symptoms, there is some evidence that massage can aid migraine sufferers. According to Hernandez-reif et al., 2009, subjects who received massage therapy reported lower anxiety, discomfort, headache-free days, sleep disturbances, and serotonin levels.
Types of Massage to Relieve Migraine
Craniosacral Therapy: This type of massage focuses on the head, neck, and spine, which can help to relieve tension and pressure in the central nervous system that can trigger migraines.
Trigger Point Therapy: This targets specific points in the body that can cause pain and discomfort and can be particularly effective in reducing the frequency and duration of migraines.
Deep Tissue Massage: This type involves the application of deep pressure to the muscles and connective tissues, which can help to release tension and improve circulation, reducing migraine pain.
Swedish Massage: This uses long, flowing strokes to improve circulation and promote relaxation, which can help to reduce stress and tension that can trigger migraines.
Shiatsu Massage: This type of massage uses finger pressure on specific points of the body to promote relaxation and relieve tension, which can help to reduce migraine pain.
How to Find the Right Massage Therapist
There are a few things that you can do to find a therapist that is experienced explicitly in treating migraines. Look through online directories of massage therapists. This will give you a list of professionals who may be experienced in treating migraines. You can also ask your doctor if they know of therapists who specialize in helping people with migraines.
Furthermore, you can search for reviews of massage therapists who have treated people with migraines to understand who is reputable and who may not be the best fit for you.
Conclusion
The benefits of massage therapy for migraine relief are evident, with research showing that it can help to alleviate tension, reduce pain signals, and improve mood. Whether you're struggling with one headache or experiencing regular migraines, consider seeking massage therapy as an effective treatment option.
Looking for a local massage therapist to alleviate your migraine pain and enhance your sense of well-being? Look no further than Optimum Body Therapy! Our expert massage therapists specialize in providing targeted massage therapy that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines and promote overall relaxation and wellness. Contact us now!