Numerous people are overworked and anxious, causing an increase in head tension.

The Migraine Research Foundation reports that around 39 million Americans suffer from migraine-like symptoms. That constitutes about 10% of the population. So, what is creating this epidemic of stress? Everyday stress and tension are some of the most significant contributors.

Add to this the pervasiveness of electronic gadgets and the amount of time we spend daily in front of screens. This combination of events causes our sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) to go into overdrive, which may result in the throbbing headaches we are all too familiar with.

How, therefore, in lieu of conventional treatments such as over-the-counter painkillers, may massage therapy ameliorate these symptoms?

What is the initial action?

As massage therapists, our first step is to engage with our customers to gain a comprehensive understanding of their ailments. In many instances, customers may be feeling concealed discomfort but are unaware of its source. So that we can identify the musculature implicated, the strength and duration of the headaches, as well as probable stress triggers, it is crucial to obtain additional information. Then, it is a matter of identifying the massage techniques that will provide you with the greatest short- and long-term relief.

How does massage assist?

When you arrive for your appointment, the massage therapist will inquire further about the type of pain you're having. From there, they will discover the most effective massage techniques for short- and long-term treatment. Trigger point therapy utilizes the internal network of the body's muscles and tissues to alleviate chronic and injury-related pain. This form of massage is particularly useful for treating underlying headache concerns.

The suboccipital group, for instance, is a small but powerful group of muscles in the back of the skull that works around the clock to maintain the head balanced on the spine. Muscle studies have revealed a push-pull link between the function and dysfunction of the jaw muscles and the suboccipital muscles. Both muscle groups include headache-inducing trigger sites and combined; they are the cause of numerous tension headaches and migraines. The application of massage to certain muscle groups can significantly ease the extreme discomfort you may be feeling.

What about headaches due to tension?

The use of heat in a hot stone massage is a recommended treatment for tension headaches due to its beneficial effects on the neurological system. However, if your client suffers from severe headaches, it is advisable to avoid applying direct heat to the head and instead focus on drawing blood to the hands and feet. According to studies, a lavender essential oil used as part of an aromatherapy treatment may be a better alternative for customers with recurrent migraines. The smells have a direct route to the limbic system, which can aid in inducing a parasympathetic response.

While scientific research on the efficacy of massage for the treatment of migraines and headaches is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that those who use massage therapy in conjunction with other healthy lifestyle habits, relaxation, and self-care activities find it extremely beneficial for their improved health.