Massage for Headaches

Massage therapy has been found to have been important in many ancient cultures, including Egypt, China, India, Japan and Arabic countries.

Massage involves a therapist rubbing, kneading, stroking and pressing on tissues and muscles.

There is also evidence that massage for headache sufferers helps reduce the number of attacks.

Massage is also excellent for:

  • Releasing muscle tensions
  • Eliminating stress
  • Reducing pain
  • Helping with sleep disorders
  • Increasing mental alertness
  • Elevating mood and depression in some cases

How to massage for headaches:

Remedial head neck and shoulder massage can relieve headaches by releasing tight muscles and soft tissue that constricts the circulation.
Head massage temporarily relieves headaches for some sufferers. E.g. Indian Head Massage

Massage relieves pain by releasing the chemical serotonin. The hormone Serotonin and migraines are believed to be related.

Massage may also help to block pain signals sent to the brain, which can help prevent headaches.

Studies on migraine massage therapy:

A 2006 study of 47 migraine sufferers were randomly assigned. Some participants were to receive massage therapy. Those which received massage experienced fewer migraines and slept better every night during the weeks they had massages.

Different types of massage

There are many different types massage available including: