12/07/2024
Head massages and headaches
Many people turn to head, neck, and shoulder massages as a natural remedy for alleviating headaches and migraine episodes.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point massage, self-massage, and acupressure can help relieve tension headaches by relaxing strained muscles and alleviating pain.
While specific research on head massages for headaches is limited, some studies suggest that massage therapy, especially at certain points in the upper neck and back of the head, could reduce headache frequency and intensity.
For example, in a 2015 studyTrusted Source targeting myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in the upper neck and back of the head using trigger point release (TPR) massage, researchers found a reduction in headache frequency and intensity. This indicates that MTrPs may play a role in tension-type headaches and that this type of massage can be effective.
In addition, a 2014 studyTrusted Source on manual and manipulative therapies for tension-type headaches showed significant reductions in headache pain, frequency, and intensity, along with improved neck flexibility. This suggests that these therapies could be beneficial alongside traditional treatments.
