Massage has been advocated by migraine sufferers for years for its abilities in reducing and preventing migraine pain. The medical community is not sure why massage helps some people, but it can relieve muscle tension and reduce stress- two major triggers for migraines. While having a professional massage therapist is useful, it is not necessary to obtain the benefits of massage. Some massage techniques can be done yourself. These techniques may help you relax and prevent migraines, and may help to relieve migraine pain during an attack.
The key to massage is locating specific pressure points on the body and massaging them. This is supposed to release certain chemicals which will help to relieve migraine symptoms. You should apply gentle pressure to these areas using the pads of the fingers, and gradually increase pressure. You should massage the muscle in small, circular motions and press as deeply into the muscle as is still comfortable. Massage for a few seconds before gradually releasing the pressure. This should be done several times on the same pressure point for maximum benefit.
There are several pressure points that may help relieve migraines, and some may work better for you than others. To make the most of these pressure points, apply pressure for ten seconds, release, and repeat several times. Use your thumbs to find the pressure point at the base of your skull, just above the spinal column. Another spot is directly between the eyebrows, and the same technique should be used here. Pressure points also lie on the outside corners of the eyes, where the bone seems to indent. There are also points on the hands and feet: the fleshy part between thumb and index finger, and the space between your big and second toes. You can massage all of these points, in this order, to achieve the best results.
You may want to consult your doctor if you are considering massage treatment for your migraine, but it is almost always considered safe. You can consult a local massage therapist for more intense treatment or to find out more ways massage may help your migraines. In addition, many massage therapists offer other holistic treatments for migraines. The cost for a massage varies, but they are generally not very expensive. For those who have found little relief in other home remedies for migraine headaches, massage may be the answer. Massage is one of the most efficient ways to get rid of migraines naturally.