Millions of people around the world suffer from headaches. Headaches do not discriminate and can affect all age groups. Headaches, such as migraines, can run in families and are three times more likely to occur in women. Headaches are one of the most common ailments blamed for missed work, school, and doctor office visits. Headaches also range in frequency and pain levels. Some people experience headaches once or twice a year, while others may experience them 15 times a month or more. Over-the-counter pain medications such as Aspirin and Tylenol are popular treatment options. Still, more and more people are researching alternative methods, such as deep-tissue massage, to seek relief from chronic headaches. King David Therapy outlines how deep tissue massage can help provide you relief from migraines and headaches.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep-tissue massage therapy uses slow strokes and firm pressure to reach deep muscles. It can treat numerous conditions and relieve musculoskeletal pain, upper back and neck pain, whiplash, sciatica, TMJ disorders, and headaches.
Types of Headaches & Their Causes
Headaches differ in the location of the pain and their severity. Cluster headaches, for example, can be excruciatingly painful and are typically caused by inflammation. Tension headaches are often brought on by anxiety, stress, and muscle tension. On the other hand, migraines can be caused by bright lights, certain foods, changes in the weather, or hormones. Migraines can be deliberating, causing severe pain, and are often accompanied by light sensitivity, nausea, and vomiting. Migraine pain begins as a dull ache but can quickly escalate into a throbbing sensation with pain that feels like it’s squeezing your head like a vice.
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage Therapy for Migraines
Deep tissue massage is an excellent tool to relieve muscle tension, increase blood flow, and reduce stress. Massage promotes relaxation and a peaceful disposition. If you suffer from headaches, talk to your King David Therapy massage therapist about the different deep-tissue massage techniques that can be used, including sports therapy, reflexology, trigger point massage, craniosacral therapy, and neuromuscular massage. Craniosacral therapy is a soft-tissue massage that concentrates on the skull and spinal column. This therapy is based on the belief that the bones of the head and spine are connected to the nervous system and are a valuable tool in alleviating headache pain. Reflexology or zone therapy uses pressure points on the hands, feet, and ears. It is based on the belief that these areas are connected to the organs of the body and that by manipulating them, it is possible to provide headache relief. Since massage is a great way to release headache-causing tension, adding essential oils can make you feel even better. Lavender, for example, has been used for thousands of years to reduce stress and promote a good night’s sleep. When combined with reflexology, peppermint oil, rosemary, chamomile, and eucalyptus are also pleasing scents for providing migraine relief. Discuss the use of aromatherapy with your King David Therapy therapist. Some essential oils can induce headaches in people sensitive to certain odors.
Massage Therapy & More in Greater Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, Brickell, Hialeah, Miami Gardens, Kendall, Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines & Hollywood, FL
To learn more about deep tissue massage for headache relief and to schedule an appointment, contact the experts at King David Therapy today.
