Can Massage Help with Headaches
and Migraines?
Tension headaches and migraines can significantly disrupt your daily life. For many, the question arises: Can massage help with headaches and migraines? The answer is a resounding yes. Massage therapy is an effective, natural remedy that not only provides relief from headache symptoms but also addresses the root causes, such as muscle tension, stress, and poor posture. Whether you’re struggling with tension headaches or searching for massage for migraines, this therapy offers a safe, drug-free solution.
If you’re in Redruth, the Kernow Resilience Hub, or the surrounding Cornwall area, finding a skilled massage therapist can make all the difference in managing and preventing headaches.
What Are Tension Headaches and Migraines?
Tension headaches are caused by tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and head, often due to stress, poor posture, or long hours at a desk. Symptoms include:
​
-
A dull, pressing pain around the forehead or back of the head.
-
Tenderness in the scalp, neck, or shoulders.
-
Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck.
-
​
Migraines, on the other hand, are more complex. They involve severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can include symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light, and visual disturbances. While the causes of migraines vary, muscle tension and stress can exacerbate their frequency and intensity.
​
So, why does massage help with headaches like these? It works by targeting the underlying triggers, providing immediate and long-term relief.
How Massage Therapy Helps with Headaches and Migraines
Massage therapy is one of the most effective natural remedies for both tension headaches and migraines. Here’s how it works:
​
Releases Muscle Tension
Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back often contributes to headaches and migraines. Massage techniques such as deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy help loosen tight muscles, reducing pressure on the nerves and blood vessels associated with headache pain.
​
Enhances Circulation
Poor blood flow can worsen headache symptoms. Massage improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tense muscles while flushing out toxins. This is particularly beneficial for migraines, as better blood flow can alleviate vascular-related pain.
​
Reduces Stress Hormones
Stress is a common trigger for both tension headaches and migraines. Massage lowers cortisol levels and boosts the release of serotonin and dopamine, helping you relax and preventing future episodes.
​
Improves Posture
Poor posture, especially from sitting at a desk or using electronic devices, can lead to chronic tension in the neck and shoulders. Massage corrects these muscular imbalances, reducing the likelihood of posture-related headaches.
Why Choose Massage for Headache and Migraine Relief in Redruth?
If you’re wondering why does massage help with headaches and migraines?, the answer lies in its holistic approach. Unlike medication, which often only masks symptoms, massage therapy addresses the root causes of pain. It not only relieves tension but also prevents future headaches by promoting relaxation and improving posture.
For those in Redruth, the Kernow Resilience Hub, and nearby areas in Cornwall, working with a local massage therapist ensures you get personalised care tailored to your needs.
Benefits of Regular Massage for Headache and Migraine Relief
Whether you’re seeking massage for migraines or tension headaches, regular therapy offers long-term
benefits, such as:
​
-
Reduced frequency and intensity of headaches.
-
Better sleep quality.
-
Lower stress levels and improved overall well-being.
-
Enhanced flexibility and range of motion.