Headaches are such a headache! They can turn your mood sour, make it hard to be present and sometimes incapacitate you from work or play. While there are many causes of headaches, massage therapy can help relieve some of the underlying tension that contributes to the pain.
What causes migraines and headaches?
There are many different things that can cause headaches and migraines. Some of the most common causes include:
Stress: Stress is a major trigger for headaches and migraines. When you're stressed, your body releases hormones that can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to pain.
Dehydration: When you're dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, which can put pressure on your brain and cause headaches.
Eyestrain: If you spend a lot of time looking at a computer screen or other electronic device, you may be at risk for headaches. This is because staring at a screen can cause eye strain, which can lead to pain.
Medications: Some medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or depression, can cause headaches as a side effect.
Foods and drinks: Certain foods and drinks, such as alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods, can trigger headaches in some people.
Hormonal changes: Women are more likely to get headaches during their menstrual cycle or menopause. This is because hormonal changes can affect blood flow to the brain, leading to pain.
Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation, which can lead to headaches.
Sleep deprivation: When you don't get enough sleep, your body produces more stress hormones, which can trigger headaches.
Head injuries: A head injury can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the head, leading to headaches.
Sinus infections: Sinus infections can cause inflammation and pressure in the sinuses, which can lead to headaches.
Eye problems: Eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts, can cause headaches.
Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and arthritis, can increase your risk of getting headaches.
Types of massage that can help
Here are some massage techniques that can help relieve headaches:
Applying pressure to the temples: The temples are located on either side of the head, just above the eyebrows. Applying pressure to the temples can help to relieve tension in the muscles of the head and neck, which can be a trigger for headaches.
Massaging the scalp: The scalp is rich in nerve endings, and massaging it can help to relieve stress and tension, which can also be a trigger for headaches.
Massaging the neck: The neck is home to many important muscles, and tension in these muscles can contribute to headaches. Massaging the neck can help to relax these muscles and relieve headache pain.
Massaging the shoulders: The shoulders are also home to many important muscles, and tension in these muscles can contribute to headaches. Massaging the shoulders can help to relax these muscles and relieve headache pain.
Massaging the back: The back is a large muscle group, and tension in this muscle group can contribute to headaches. Massaging the back can help to relax these muscles and relieve headache pain.
See your doctor
It is important to note that massage therapy is not a cure for headaches, but it can be an effective way to relieve headache pain. If you are experiencing frequent or severe headaches, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
“Massage therapy is a safe and effective treatment for headaches and migraines. It can help to reduce pain, improve circulation, and relax muscles”
Come visit us at Parkside
Come see our expert team at Parkside Clinic where we tailor our care to your specific condition and tap into your body’s natural healing ability. Make an appointment, or if you have any questions, contact us.