Headache & Migraine Symptoms Can Have Different Sources
Headache-related discomfort may involve muscular tension, stress, jaw tension, postural strain or other factors. Because similar symptoms can have different causes, the same massage approach is not appropriate for everyone.
Tension-Type Headache Patterns
Tightness through the neck, shoulders, upper back and base of the skull may contribute to tension-type headache patterns. Massage may help ease associated muscular tension and support relaxation.
Migraine-Related Muscular Tension
Muscular tension may occur before, during or after a migraine episode, especially through the neck, shoulders and jaw. Massage does not treat migraine itself, but may help address associated muscular tightness when massage is appropriate.
Jaw, Neck & Postural Tension
Clenching, prolonged screen use, repetitive posture and muscular tension around the jaw and upper neck may contribute to discomfort that travels toward the temples, forehead or base of the skull.
When Medical Evaluation Matters
Massage therapists do not diagnose the cause of headaches or migraines. New, sudden, severe or unusual headaches, especially those accompanied by weakness, numbness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, vision changes, confusion, chest pain, fever, recent head injury or other concerning neurological symptoms, should be evaluated promptly by a qualified healthcare provider.
How Massage May Help
Headache and migraine-related discomfort can feel different from person to person. Massage can be tailored around the areas where you hold tension, with pressure, positioning and pace adjusted to your comfort and sensitivity.
Ease Muscular Tension
Focused work through the neck, shoulders, upper back and base of the skull may help ease tightness that can accompany certain headache patterns.
Address Related Areas
Tension in the jaw, upper shoulders and surrounding muscles can sometimes contribute to discomfort felt around the temples, forehead or back of the head.
A Personalized Approach
Pressure, positioning and pacing can be adjusted around your symptoms and sensitivity, especially when you’re feeling tender, fatigued or more sensitive than usual.
Approaches That May Be Used
Depending on your comfort, symptoms and selected therapist, your session may incorporate one or more massage techniques to address headache-related muscular tension through the neck, shoulders, jaw and upper back.
Trigger Point Therapy
Focused pressure may be used on sensitive areas that contribute to tightness or referred discomfort.
Focused Neck & Shoulder Work
Targeted massage may be used through the neck, shoulders and base of the skull where tension is often most noticeable.
Swedish / Relaxation Massage
Gentle, flowing techniques may be used to encourage relaxation and help ease general muscular tension.
Cupping
Silicone cups may be incorporated when appropriate to create gentle tissue lift and work with areas of muscular restriction.
PERSONALIZED CARE STARTS HERE
Ready to Feel More Comfortable?
Whether you’re dealing with recurring tension, migraine-related muscular tightness, or discomfort through the neck, shoulders or jaw, your massage can be personalized around what you’re experiencing.