Can massage offer hope for migraine sufferers?
If you experience migraines, you know only too well the debilitating pain and disruption they bring. The throbbing, the nausea, the light sensitivity – it can feel like your life is constantly on hold. While medication is essential for managing many cases of migraine many people also explore complementary solutions. Here at Thai Dee Massage in Milton Keynes, we often get asked: Does massage help migraines?
Let’s take a look at the research and see if massage could be a helpful addition to your migraine management plan.
Does Massage Help Migraines? – The Research
While massage won’t replace your prescribed migraine medication, the research is promising. Here’s what some studies have shown:
- Improved Outcomes – A 2006 study found that people receiving massage experienced fewer migraines and better sleep, both during the massage period and for several weeks afterward. The massage group saw migraines reduced by about a third, which is significant when compared to the control group.
- Pain Reduction – In a 2012 study, massage focusing on the neck area led to a significant decrease in migraine pain. Participants reported their pain intensity lowered by a remarkable 71% over the course of their massage treatments.
- Potential Benefits: A smaller study from 2017 indicates that massage may help in several ways: reducing migraine intensity, lowering the frequency of attacks, and even lessening your exposure to common migraine triggers like stress.
Important Note – Research into massage for migraines is ongoing. While these results are encouraging, larger-scale studies are needed to fully understand how beneficial massage therapy may be.
Massage Therapies with Potential for Migraine Relief
The research shows that massage isn’t a cure-all for migraines, but it might help you manage them more effectively. Here are some massage therapies that could potentially reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and ease stress – all factors that can contribute to migraines:
- Thai Massage – This dynamic massage combines stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic compressions. Its focus on energy lines and pressure points may release tension contributing to migraines.
- Swedish Massage – Known for its gentle, relaxing strokes, Swedish massage improves circulation and reduces muscle tension–both potential benefits for migraine sufferers.
- Trigger Point Therapy – This targeted massage focuses on releasing tight “knots” in muscles (“trigger points”) that can refer pain to the head, a common migraine pattern.
- Deep Tissue Massage – While not for everyone, deep tissue work can help chronic neck and shoulder tension that might worsen migraines. Discuss any sensitivities with your therapist.
- Thai Aroma Massage – This variation on Thai massage incorporates the use of essential oils for added relaxation and potential therapeutic effects. Lavender, rosemary, and peppermint are all known to relieve pain, tension, and stress, making them potentially helpful for migraines.
Important Considerations for Massage & Migraines
At Thai Dee Massage, we understand that every person with migraines experiences them differently. That’s why we begin with a consultation to learn about your specific history, triggers, and how migraines impact you. This information allows your therapist to create a massage plan tailored to your unique needs.
If you’re new to massage, starting with a shorter session and lighter pressure is perfectly fine. Our 30-minute massages provide a great introduction, allowing you to discover what feels comfortable and beneficial. Your feedback is important to us!
Remember, massage therapy is a powerful tool, but it works best as a complement to your overall migraine management plan. Open communication with both your massage therapist and your healthcare provider will help you maximise the benefits of all your treatment options.
Massage for Migraine Sufferers at Thai Dee Massage
At Thai Dee Massage in Milton Keynes, we understand the debilitating impact migraines can have on your life. If you’re ready to explore relief beyond medication alone, our massage therapies could be a valuable addition to your migraine management.
Our skilled therapists will work with you to design a customised massage plan. We draw on a range of techniques, including traditional Thai massage, aromatherapy, and deep tissue work, to target the potential sources of your pain and tension.
Ready to find relief? Contact Thai Dee Massage today to discuss how massage therapy could make a difference in your life. Let’s work together to manage your migraines and improve your quality of life.