Addressing Headaches

Before we can intelligently discuss headaches, it is imperative that we understand what type of headache we are addressing. There are three types of headaches. First, there are tension headaches, which account for over fifty percent of all primary health care providers' visits. Second, there are sinus headaches, which are attributed to allergies and the flu. Third, and the most serious of all headaches, migraine headaches.

There are as many reasons to experience tension headaches as there are personalities and lifestyles. Whether the cause is emotional or physical the result is the same, throbbing temples and mental discomfort. We are certainly not at our creative best when our head hurts. Massage addresses tension headaches by relaxing the neck and shoulders. As we relax, we soften our muscles and headaches disappear. These are the easiest headaches for us to address.

Sinus headaches are best addressed by face massage. As the sinus cavities become relaxed, the fluids that are trapped in these spaces release and begin to flow, allowing us to drain and cleanse the sinuses. This is a slow process and usually takes a few massage sessions. There are simple techniques that any experienced massage professional can teach you to allow you to release these cavities yourself. Between massages, you will find relief with a few minutes of self-massage done on a regular basis.

Migraine headaches can be caused by either impingement of the nerves in the neck or by chemical imbalances. Massage can address the impinged nerve problem by releasing the Levator Scapula Muscles. It is often necessary to address either the left or right Levator muscle for several hours to achieve complete relief. Be sure to ask your massage professional if they have had experience eliminating migraine headaches. You will probably need to shop around a bit to find a massage professional who is willing to work just one muscle for two hours at a time.

Headaches cripple our ability to function optimally and are probably the most common form of what could be called discomfort. Now is a good time to allow a massage professional the opportunity to rid you of your headache discomfort naturally.

WHAT A TYPICAL MASSAGE TREATMENT IS LIKE....

A typical massage treatment is 40 to 90 minutes long. It begins with consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. You will be asked to disrobe (most people keep their underwear on) while the therapist is out of the room, and lie face down on a special massage table. There is a sheet or towel draped over you at all times, so only the part of the body being treated at any one time is uncovered. Massage therapists use a light oil or cream on the skin.

Will it be uncomfortable?
It shouldn't be uncomfortable. Occasionally there is mild aching when the therapist applies pressure over "knots" and other areas of muscle tension. If the pressure is too strong for you, let the therapist know.

One type of massage, called deep tissue massage, uses more direct pressure and friction on muscles, especially those in the low back, between the shoulder blades, and around the neck. Clients usually feel sore after these treatments.

How will I feel after?
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. Occasionally, people experience mild temporary aching for a day.

Should I talk to the massage therapist during the treatment?
Your massage therapist may ask you questions related to your condition during your treatment. If you have any additional information you forgot to mention during the consultation, don't hesitate to bring it up. Don't feel like you have to make conversation during your treatment.

"I fell asleep during my massage!"
Don't be embarassed - it happens to many people. In fact, being in such as state of relaxation during the massage enhances the therapeutic effects.