Have you ever suffered from a throbbing headache or a debilitating migraine? If so, you know how hard it can be to find relief. This June, in honor of Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, I want to use Massage Artistry to shed light on how massage therapy can be a powerful tool in managing and easing these often draining conditions.

First, if you struggle with frequent headaches or migraines, you’re not alone. More than 4 million adults experience chronic daily migraine, with at least 15 migraine days per month.*

Causes of Headaches & Migraines

Headaches and migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors. However, it’s important to note that what may cause a headache or migraine in one person may not cause it in another. Here are some of the common causes:

1. Stress: This is one of the most common causes of headaches. Tension in the muscles of the neck and scalp can lead to a tension headache.

2. Lack of Sleep or Irregular Sleep:  Both too much and too little sleep can trigger headaches or migraines. Irregular sleep patterns can also contribute to the frequency and severity of headaches.

3. Dehydration: Not consuming enough water can lead to a dehydration headache.

4. Diet and Alcohol: Certain foods, caffeine, alcohol, and skipping meals can trigger headaches or migraines in some people. Red wine and beer are particularly notorious for causing migraines.

5. Hormonal Changes: Women may experience migraines related to their menstrual cycle due to changing hormone levels. Menopause and pregnancy can also affect headache and migraine frequency and severity.

6. Physical Strain: Overexertion, or intense exercise, can lead to headaches.

7. Environmental Factors: Changes in the weather, exposure to strong smells, bright lights, loud noises, or smoke can all trigger headaches or migraines.

8. Medications: Certain medicines, especially when overused, can cause headaches.

9. Posture and Eyestrain: Poor posture can lead to tension headaches. Spending too long looking at digital screens can cause eyestrain, leading to headaches.

10. Medical Conditions: Sinusitis, influenza, and other infections can cause headaches. In addition, migraines and headaches can also be associated with more serious conditions, like stroke or brain tumors, though these are much less common.

Now, let me just say that it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider if you’re dealing with frequent or severe headaches or migraines. They can help determine potential triggers and suggest appropriate treatments.

But for migraines and tension headaches that are triggered by chronic muscle tension, poor posture, and stress, factors, massage therapy can directly address them. Massage not only helps relax tense muscles, especially in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, but it also promotes overall relaxation, aiding in stress management, a key element in headache prevention.

The Massage Artistry’s Personalized Approach

At Massage Artistry, we can use peppermint oil and a gentle approach that releases tensions deep in the body, relieving pain and dysfunction and improving overall health. This technique, coupled with regular massage sessions, can be particularly effective in easing the frequency, severity, and duration of migraines.

Beyond these specialized techniques, regular massage therapy can contribute to overall well-being. Massage therapy can be a proactive part of your migraine management strategy by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving sleep – all factors in migraine onset.

The Massage Artistry mission is based on the power of personalized care. It’s about focusing on understanding your unique needs and tailoring your sessions to provide you with the most beneficial relief. The Signature Massage provides the opportunity to create something specifically for you. So if migraines or headaches are a part of your life, I invite you to book a session. Let’s work together to create a plan that suits your lifestyle and assists you in managing your migraines and headaches effectively.

Life doesn’t have to be a headache. Let Massage Artistry be a part of your journey towards a pain-free life. Book your session here today.

Here’s to a healthier, happier you.

*Source: Migraine Research Foundation