Migraine headaches occur when blood vessels around the temples and base of the skull become enlarged, causing a chemical release that inflames the vessels, muscles and nerves in the head and neck. Besides pain, nausea, diarrhea and sensitivity to light can occur and last for hours or days. According to 2006 information on the American Massage Therapy Association website, 45 million Americans suffered from frequent migraines. If you are included in this number, you know how maddening and painful they can be; however, you may not have known that they can be treated by massage.
Massage
As a whole, massage therapy has shown to improve many ailments, such as pain, poor circulation and migraines. Studies from the Touch Research Institute indicate that people who receive regular massage have reduced migraine symptoms, increased sleep quality, increased serotonin levels and fewer migraines. There are several different massage therapies that are effective in reducing migraine symptoms.
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach, according to the Upledger Institute. "Cranio" refers to the head, while "sacral" refers to the lower back. Dr. John Upledger discovered this therapy in the 70s. It is based upon the fact that the head, brain, and spinal cord are surrounded by craniosacral fluid that flows or "pulses" from one end to the other. During a massage treatment, a therapist finds blockages preventing the flow of fluid from tight or inflamed muscles. Using gentle pressure, he releases them, allowing the fluid to regain its normal pulse from the head to the sacral region, thereby reducing migraines in both strength and frequency
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points are painful knots that develop in the muscle due to a build-up of lactic acid or other toxins in the body, according to the Mama's Health website. Trigger-point therapy works by applying firm-to-deep pressure on the trigger point to release toxins, decreasing and eventually eliminating the knot, which in turn relieves the pain. Although trigger-point therapy is more invasive than other massage therapies and can be a painful treatment, it offers relief to migraine sufferers.
Reflexology
Reflexology uses a "map" of points on the hands, feet, and even the ears that correlate to different areas of the body, according to Kevin and Barbara Kunz international authorities in reflexology. Reflexologists most commonly work on the feet, feeling for knots or granules. They then apply pressure on these points to release toxins that have built up due to lactic acid, stress or disease. This therapy can both relieve migraine symptoms and provide relaxation.
Training
If you're considering massage to relieve your migraines, make sure your therapist is properly trained and certified. Specialized massage modalities work intensely with the cervical spine and the nerves attached to it; these therapies require specific knowledge and skill. An unqualified or unskilled therapist may only exacerbate your migraine problem.
