Migraines: Massage Therapy Relief

What Exactly Are Migraines?
A migraine is marked by moderate to severe pain and throbbing in the head, and can be accompanied by nausea as well as sensitivity to light and sounds. In some cases, these painful headaches are preceded or accompanied by a sensory warning sign, such as flashes of light, blind spots or tingling in your arm or leg.

Fortunately, management of migraine pain has improved dramatically in the last decade. Although there's still no cure, medications are now much more effective. Additionally, alternative treatments like massage and essential oils have been found to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

What Are The Most Common Causes?
The exact causes of migraines aren’t well understood, there is research that has found that many people have some common triggers, including food allergies, caffeine addiction, environmental stimulation, emotional and physical stress and hormonal imbalance.

Quick Facts About Migraines

1. Migraine attacks go beyond the symptoms of a normal headache and require serious attention.
2. Often referred to as a spreading depression, migraines that start in a central location can rapidly spread.
3. A spreading depression can move into the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve that affects the face), causing the blood vessels of the brain to constrict and then dilate continuously.
4. Migraine attacks can occur daily and can be devastating to the sufferer’s ability to function normally.
5. People with migraines can be more susceptible to epilepsy.

How Can Massage Help Manage Migraines?
Massage is a great way to manage stress and relieve tension- two of the main causes of migraine headaches. Research at The Touch Institute of the University of Miami School of Medicine found that massage therapy decreased the occurrence of headaches, sleep disturbances and distress symptoms while increasing serotonin levels in adults with migraine headaches.

House Of Massage Green Day Spa's professional therapists can provide specific services, designed to reduce symptoms associated with migraines, so you experience lasting relief and peace of mind.

What Techniques Will Be Used?
House Of Massage Green Day Spa's professional massage therapists integrate a variety of techniques into their work. Depending on the severity of your migraines or tension headaches, your therapist may utilize a Reflexology, Swedish massage, Reflexology, Cold Stone, Migraine Therapy, Aromatherapy or other methods that address your specific needs.

Is There Lasting Relief?
Migraines and other types of headaches are one of the most common complaints seen in the physician's office today. The Mayo Clinic recommends that patients with migraines spend at least a half-hour each day doing something either relaxing or that involves the relaxation of muscles. With a Celebrity membership, you can enjoy massages throughout the month at a low price. This is particularly helpful for managing migraines and severe headaches, as you can easily visit our convenient centrally located office (15 minutes from Fort Gordon, Evans, Grovetown, Augusta) prior to, during or after symptoms occur. If you have any pressing concerns, please consult your doctor. If you are experiencing migraines due to an auto accident or personal injury you can see our office for Medical Massage.

Sources:
Mayo Clinic
The Touch Institute of the University of Miami School of Medicine
American Massage Therapy Association