Headaches and migraines
Headaches can range from mildly irritating to intensely painful, while migraines can be completely debilitating. Finding relief can be difficult, and although medications are available, many people prefer to avoid adding more drugs to their system. For many, massage therapy has proven to be an effective source of relief.
Headaches and Migranes
To start, it’s important to understand what a migraine is. Essentially, it is a condition where the brain struggles to process certain sensory experiences. Migraines can be triggered by factors such as allergies, visual stimuli, or physical changes like lack of sleep or hunger.
Next, it is important to know the stages of a migraine. There are four phases:
- Pre-headache – Some warning signs of a migraine can include difficulty concentrating, excessive sleepiness, neck pain, or even food cravings. These symptoms can appear as early as one or two days before the migraine begins.
- Aura – Patients often describe experiencing visual disruptions, such as sparkling lights or unusual lines. Others may report symptoms like tinnitus or vertigo.
- Headache – At this stage, most people experience their worst symptoms. The head pain is intense and may be accompanied by nausea and fatigue. Many individuals find relief by lying down and resting in a dark, cool room.
- Recovery – After the pain has subsided, many people feel fatigued or disoriented.
Physicians often recommend non-prescription methods for managing migraines. These include maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise. They also encourage relaxation techniques and emphasize the importance of self-care.
While there’s no conclusive scientific evidence on the effectiveness of massage therapy for migraines, some promising reports have emerged.
- A study involving two groups of migraine sufferers found that those who received two 30-minute traditional massages per week for five weeks reported fewer migraines and lower heart rates compared to the group that received no massages.
- In another study, one group received no massages, while the other underwent 12 myofascial trigger-point massages over six weeks. The massage group reported fewer migraines and an increased pain tolerance.
Finding the right massage therapist is crucial in many cases. At Calgary RMT, we have a team of skilled massage therapists ready to assist you. Our in-home or mobile service is especially beneficial for those suffering from chronic headaches. We specialize in matching you with the therapist whose touch is best suited to your needs. If one style doesn’t work for you, we’ll gladly help you find a therapist with the technique that suits you best. Our flexible scheduling system is designed to accommodate your lifestyle and personal needs.
Contact us to discuss your headaches and any other concerns you may have. One of our representatives will be happy to consult with you to explore whether massage therapy could help reduce the severity of your headaches and migraines.
Plan a Visit
Booking an appointment with Calgary RMT is easy. You can schedule your mobile massage therapy session with ease. Our rates are competitive, and we accept most forms of payment. We are also happy to work with private insurance clients and assist with the necessary paperwork.
