Migraine Relief Tips: Can Massages Really Help?

Can Massages Really Help with Migraine Relief?

If you are looking for migraine relief, it turns out that massage could be a viable option. Keep reading to learn more. 

What Causes Migraines?

Migraines are throbbing headaches of varying intensity that are often accompanied by sensitivity to both light and sound. For some, these headaches can even be disabling. The American Migraine Association estimates that around 39 million Americans live with migraines, but because many people never seek diagnosis or treatment, the number could very well be much higher. Migraines can have a multitude of causes, including:

  • Stress
  • Hormonal changes in women
  • Medication side effect
  • Sensory stimuli
  • Drinks including alcoholic and highly caffeinated beverages
  • Variations in sleep, too much or too little
  • Weather changes
  • Miscellaneous physical factors

There are several risk factors that can increase the chances a person will experience migraines, including: 

  • Family history- If a member of your family experiences migraines, there is an increased chance that you will develop them too.
  • Sex- Women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men. 
  • Age- You can experience migraines at any age; however, for most people, they peak in their 30s and become less frequent and intense as time passes. 

Regardless of the cause of your migraines, getting frequent messages could be a powerful tool for relieving them. 

How Can Massage Provide Migraine Relief? 

Massage is a great way to relieve stress and tension, two significant and stubborn causes of migraines. Additionally, massage can help to ease the pressure you may feel when a migraine comes on. 

Studies have shown that participants saw reduced heart rates, anxiety, cortisol levels after five weeks of weekly massages and experienced better sleep. These benefits helped to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines in participants.  

For an added boost, consider adding an aromatherapy element to your massage. Lavender and eucalyptus essential oils are both known to have calming effects when diffused into the air. 

Other Benefits of Massage

In addition to migraine relief, massage has a host of other benefits. It can boost your energy, help you to relax and de-stress, aid in the healing process of sports and other injuries, and provide relief during both the pre and postnatal periods. 

In order to reap the maximum benefits of massage, we recommend booking an appointment with a trusted licensed massage therapist at least once a month and as frequently as once a week if necessary. 

Enchanted Hands Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Can Help

It’s clear that getting a regular massage can be highly beneficial for relief from migraines and an excellent tool for overall relaxation. 

If you are seeking migraine relief, contact Enchanted Hands Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork today to see what we can do for you. We specialize in all types of massage, from clinical massage and sports therapy to trigger-point therapy and pre-and postnatal, so we will be prepared to meet your needs, whatever they may be. Schedule an appointment at our Taylorsville, Utah, office today and start reaping the benefits of massage. 

Geri

As a general rule you should be drinking 1/2 your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh in at 100 lbs. you should be consuming 50 ounces of water per day. More if you are actively sweating it out.