Migraines are intense, chronic headaches caused by constriction of blood vessels in the brain and neck. They can be triggered by a number of things including stress, poor circulation, and extreme physical stress. According to the Mayo Clinic, migraines may be caused by chemical imbalances such as reduced serotonin levels. Migraines can last for hours, days and even weeks. Massage therapy can relieve some of the triggers and possibly reduce the severity and duration of the migraine
Relieves Stress and Tension
Massage therapy reduces tension in the muscles and relieves stress. It allows the body to relax and release. Massage is similar to physical activity in that the muscles are being worked in much the same way as exercise. The difference is that the stress and exertion needed in exercise is not involved.
As the muscles are manipulated and moved, endorphins are released into the body that promote feelings of well being. This allows the body to relax and be more at ease. Deep breathing is also encouraged in efforts to relieve stress and tension.
Improves Circulation
Because migraines are sometimes associated with less oxygenated blood being circulated through the brain, improving circulation may help in relieving the severity of the occurrence. Massage loosens the muscle tissue and allows blood to flow through the tissues more freely. This improves circulation and also allows the blood to carry more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
As massage works to relieve tightened muscles, it releases toxins that accumulate during highly stressful periods. As these toxins are released, they are carried away by the blood and the lymphatic system. With less toxins in the muscle and blood, oxygen is allowed to be absorbed and assimilated into the body. Fresh oxygen encourages healing. Scalp and neck massage may relieve the tension that is felt in and around the head itself.
Improved Sleep
As the body begins to relax and circulation is restored to optimum levels, the healing process can start to take place. The body heals itself during sleep. More nutrients and sufficient oxygen provided through better circulation gives the body what it needs to correct problems that may be causing the migraine.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, a study performed in 2006 and reported in the "Annals of Behavioral Medicine" showed that migraine sufferers who received massage during an episode had better quality sleep with fewer disturbances than members of the control group.
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