Therapies... - Massage - Migraine Headaches

Migraines are excruciating headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, hypersensitivity to stimuli or other neurological phenomena. The pain may be unilateral or bilateral. These headaches are vascular in nature. The cause is unknown, but it seems to be a period of abnormal vasoconstriction of blood vessels of the head, followed by a period of vasodilatation. Several theories have been offered that point to heredity, neurological malfunction, allergies, viral infections, hormonal or chemical responses, and emotional or physical tension. There also seems to be common triggers such as food (particularly red wine and chocolate), weather, stress, low blood sugar, sleep disturbances, sensory stimuli (flashing lights, certain smells), and hormonal shifts.

Migraines in children are often referred to as abdominal migraines because they can present as sudden recurrent nausea, vomiting, and sever abdominal cramps without head pain. Generally, at least one parent has a migraine history.

If massage is sought during a headache, the aim of treatment will be to reduce pain via a slow, soothing massage (see Relaxation/Stress Reduction). Between headaches, massage can be used to increase local circulation, decrease muscles spasm, decrease hypertonicity, and relieve trigger points of affected muscles; those in the upper back, neck, and head may be tight and weak. Your therapist should test for these as they may be contributing to the headache or other problems. You should also be assessed for possible joint dysfunction in the cervical spine, as this may also be a contributing factor. Hydrotherapy can be very effective in treating migraines. However, different temperatures are effective at different stages. It is important to be clear with your therapist about whether or not you are experiencing a headache or if you feel one coming on. Stretches and hydrotherapy can be prescribed, which you can do at home between headaches, in attempt to decrease severity, duration, or frequency of them. Your therapist can also help you identify any potential triggers so that you can steer clear of them as much as possible.