Migraine relief may sound like an elusive dream, but it doesn’t have to be that way. At Inspire Movements Massage Therapy we understand the challenge — which is far too common, might I add! If you relate to this unique and painful disorder, help is out there. There are a multitude of types, including hormonal. Let’s get into it.
Understanding Migraines: More Than Just a Headache
Migraines are so misunderstood! These are more than just headaches, but rather complex neurological events.
Triggers can exist for a variety of reasons including:
- Stress
- Sleep disruptions
- Food sensitivities
- Hormonal shifts
Many sufferers turn to massage therapy as a non-invasive, natural alleviation method — and we see why! With results this promising, who wouldn’t?
Can Massage Therapy Really Help Migraines?
Absolutely! Massage therapy has been studied and shown to improve symptoms of certain migraines, mostly including those triggered by muscle tension, stress, and poor circulation. So many individuals don’t know the exact source of their migraines, one of these underlying issues could be playing a part and you may not even be aware. While massage isn’t the end-all be-all to migraines, it can certainly help! By reducing frequency, severity, and duration a few contributing factors can be addressed:
- Reducing muscle pain (especially in the upper back, neck and shoulders)
- Improving circulation
- Activating the parasympathetic nervous system — this relaxes and balances stress hormones
- Decreasing sensitivity in muscular trigger points, specifically in those that contribute to referred pain patterns
What Massage Techniques Work Best for Migraines?
We customize your session based on your specific needs. Looking at migraine patterns, history and sensitivity we can determine the best treatment plan for you. You can keep a migraine journal to help track your patterns and triggers as well as coordinate your appointments around your migraines as a preventative measure!
Some common techniques:
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- Craniosacral Therapy: This gentle method focuses on releasing fascia and promotes cerebrospinal fluid flow. This is great for those who may struggle with deeper pressure.
- Trigger Point Therapy: This method focuses on releasing deep and tight knots. Muscles like the trapezius, suboccipitals, and SCM (sternocleidomastoid) all can contribute to referred pain to the head and neck.
- Myofascial Release: Helpful for postural imbalances and clients with chronic tension.
- Swedish Massage & Relaxation Techniques: For stress related migraines, relaxing and soothing the nervous system can be a sweet relief.
What About Hormonal Migraines?
One of the most frustrating types! This type of migraine is tied to things such as the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, or other hormone fluctuations. More research is constantly expanding upon this one, but here is what we know:
Estrogen fluctuation plays a major role in triggering this type of migraine.
Massage therapy can’t directly alter the hormones, but it can help improve sleep and balance the body’s stress response, leading to overall hormonal regulation.
Abdominal massage and work around the pelvic and sacral regions can potentially support hormonal balance by increasing circulation to reproductive organs and by easing pelvic congestion.
When receiving massage regularly (especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle), some clients report a reduction in their hormonal migraines!
If you are keeping a migraine journal and you have hormonal migraines it is crucial to notate the direct correlation between the flare ups and your cycle to appropriately schedule appointments to help combat these very challenging migraines.
What to Expect in a Migraine Massage Therapy Session
It is important to know when you are dealing with a migraine, your body is in a fragile state at that time. At Inspire Movements Massage Therapy here’s what we’ll do to offer pain relief massage near N Academy & Kelly Johnson, CO Springs:
- Conduct a thorough intake, learning triggers and patterns through history
- Tailor the massage and pressure to your unique needs
- Use warm towels, aromatherapy and dim lighting
- Offer advice, such as post hydration tips, stretches and discuss postural habits
When to Seek Migraine Massage Therapy in Colorado Springs
Regular massage therapy may be a good addition to your routine if you:
Experience recurring or chronic headaches and/or migraines
Want a drug-free, natural form of relief
Have neck, shoulder or jaw pain or tightness
Suspect hormones play a role in your migraines
Want to prevent migraines
Book Migraine Massage Therapy in Colorado Springs Today
Migraines don’t have to rule your life and believe me, you are not alone. If you are looking for a way to break the cycle, here at Inspire Movements Massage Therapy we offer in-depth and customized care that is specialized to you. Whether you’re dealing with hormonal migraines, stress-related pain, or tension headaches, we have got you covered. For therapeutic massage for headache relief near Research Parkway book today and reclaim your life! Discover migraine massage therapy in Colorado Springs and how it offers relief including techniques for hormonal migraines among other triggers.
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https://www.verywellhealth.com/migraine-relief-pressure-points-5205811
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https://www.self.com/story/migraine-medication
https://time.com/23952/21-natural-ways-to-prevent-and-treat-headaches/
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