Last Minute Massage Blog

Anyone who has gone through the pain of having a migraine would definitely call them attacks.  I wouldn’t wish these horrible pains on  my worst enemy.  They can bring you to your knees within minutes of the first sign.  Light, sound, smells all make them worse.  I’ve been doubled over crying and sick to my stomach with a migraine.  Knock on wood, I haven’t had one in almost a year now, but, wow…those things HURT! So…how can massages help a migraine?

(I’ve felt like this before)

Massage technique can relax abnormal tension in the muscles in areas commonly associated with migraine pain. These include the neck, shoulders, trunk and jaw. Gentle soothing techniques, such  as kneading or long gliding strokes to the neck, shoulders and scalp can significantly reduce pain.  Gentle pressure along the forehead, back of the neck at the base of the skull and around the eyes and jaw can calm trigger points, those areas that may cause sudden or radiating pain.  Gentle stretching techniques, especially of the neck and shoulders can increase range of motion and decrease spasms or muscular contractions.

During An Attack
The goal of massage during a migraine attack is comfort. A shortened treatment of 30 – 45 minutes to tolerance will avoid exhaustion, thus an increased likelihood of exacerbated symptoms. Treatment should be relaxing in nature. No deep or vigorous techniques should be applied at this time.

If you are unable to tolerate any work on the main areas (neck, shoulders and head) try cold packs or ice to these areas while receiving a massage to the hands or feet. The theory of reflexology suggests the hands and feet are a map of the body, so massage of these areas can relieve pain as well.

Take caution when applying ice to the head area. Avoid the possibility of frostbite or freezing of the tissues and muscles by never applying ice directly to skin. Always wrap cold packs or ice in towel. Limit use to five to ten minutes. And do not massage area after ice application, as a numbing effect will decrease sensation and increase the possibility of injury to the tissues or muscles.

Before and After An Attack
Massage treatments are most beneficial if performed on a regular basis to help the body maintain optimal performance. Relaxing techniques can promote stress relief and overall well-being. Deeper, more vigorous techniques can be applied at this time to address restrictions in range of motion, muscle spasms, tight areas and trigger points. 

For all you migrain sufferers, I hope this helps you prevent the next attack and helps during your next one.

Thanks,

Tiffany
Last Minute Massage