Can Massage Therapy Heal Migraines?
Struggling with migraines and headaches? Have a hard time focusing at work? If so, consider massage therapy! This treatment has shown to be effective in pain management, offering a myriad of health benefits. It not only relieves migraines, but also eases muscle tension, improves sleep, and lifts your mood. Most patients feel better after just one session.
Migraines at a Glance
More than 37 million Americans suffer from migraines. It is estimated that over 30 percent of the adult population in the U.S. has this problem. About five million suffers experience at least one episode per month. Migraines are more common in women and people over 35. About 91 percent of those dealing with this issue miss work during a migraine attack.
Migraines are often associated with tingling in the limbs, blind spots, flashes of light, nausea, and severe pain in the head. These symptoms can last for days, affecting your ability to work and function in society. Several studies suggest that massage therapy is safe, natural alternative to prescription drugs and pain relievers. This form of treatment may help relieve headaches without the side effects of medications.
Get Rid of Migraines with Regular Massage
A 2006 study conducted on 47 people suffering from migraines has found that those who received massages slept better and reported fewer migraines during treatment. This therapy helps by reducing tension and stress – two of the main causes of migraines. At the same time, it has a relaxing effect and improves blood flow to the brain.
Regular massage may ease the symptoms associated with migraine headaches, such as poor sleep, throbbing pain, and difficulty concentrating. This therapy raises the feel-good hormone serotonin levels in the brain, offering lasting pain relief. Massage also decreases muscle spasms and tension, which further helps prevent and heal migraines. The most effective form of massage for this condition is Shiatsu, a Japanese healing technique that involves applying pressure with the palm, fingers, and thumbs to acupuncture points.
