Massage Therapy and Headaches

A remedy that many find effective, but not so many seek out, is massage. Massage Therapy can help relieve muscle spasms, improve blood flow and circulation, and promoting relaxation. It has been shown to be helpful in bringing relief for tension headaches and preventing migraines.

Massage has two roles when it comes to treating migraines and tension related headaches:

1. In a proactive role, massage treatments are performed on a regular basis to help the body maintain an optimal level of relaxation and stress-relief. This approach reduces the chances of migraine attacks and tension headaches significantly by relaxing muscle spasms and trigger points.
2. In a comfort role, massage is done to ease the pressure brought on during a migraine or tension related headache. By focusing on the neck, shoulders, and head, massage can decrease the pain and discomfort brought on by migraine or tension headaches.

A study found that in adults with migraine headaches, massage therapy decreased the occurrence of headaches, sleep disturbances and distress symptoms. It also increased serotonin levels, believed to play an important role in the regulation of mood, sleep and appetite.

Guy Lacoursiere, RMT practices at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, located at 142 Erickson Drive. Call 403-347-3261 to book an appointment or visit us online.

Chiropractic Care and Headaches

Being able to think clearly and calmly allows us to make decisions, process emotions, and carry on with our day-to-day lives. That clarity can be easily destroyed with a headaches. Many people have occasional headaches, but frequent headaches that affect your ability to sleep or get on with your day can be disabling.

Different Types of Headaches

Common types of headaches are tension, migraine, and cervicogenic headaches.

Tension-type headaches commonly present as band-like tension around the head, whereas migraine headaches usually result in pain on one side of the head and are commonly accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

With cervicogenic headaches, the neck is the source of the problem but the pain is perceived in one or more areas of the head and/or face. The causes of headaches are not always well understood but a family history of headaches, neck stiffness, and stress are common factors.

How can chiropractors help with headaches?

Chiropractors can assess, diagnose, and manage headaches. Current evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including manual therapy, can be effective in treating cervicogenic and tension headaches.¹ Studies have also shown that chiropractic care can help decrease the intensity and frequency of migraines.¹ Treatment options may include:

1.      Manual therapy (specific adjustments)

2.      Soft tissue therapy

3.      Modalities including electrical stimulation, acupuncture, and ultrasound

4.      Rehabilitation (Stretches and Exercises)

5.      Lifestyle changes and education (Ergonomic changes at work, at computer)

6.      Referral and co-management

It’s important to take headaches seriously. Consider consulting a chiropractor if you often have headaches, if you frequently take a pain reliever for your headaches, if your headache pattern changes, or if your headaches are getting worse. Seek prompt attention if your headache is sudden and severe, follows a head injury, or is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.

Chiropractic can provide fast, effective relief of neck pain and headaches. If you or loved ones suffer from headaches, call to start the healing process with Chiropractic.

Dr. Stephen Kelly is a Chiropractor at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, located In Red Deer, AB
 www.family1stchiro.ca   Call 403-347-3261 to book an appointment.

Massage and Tension Headaches

Massage and Tension Headaches

Massage therapy reduces the occurrences of tension headaches. In Live Strong Joe King, MD asserts that many chronic tension headaches can lead to a buildup of collagen fibers where your tendons and ligaments attach to the bones of your head and neck. These fibers do not contract and are hard and stiff. The presence of collagen fibers can result in physical deformity, discomfort, pain, and a decrease in joint function, which can all trigger more tension headaches. Massage can be used to break up the collagen fibers located around your cervical vertebrae, which can alleviate the stress they place on your muscles and joints. Further, massage offers an alternative treatment because it is a non invasive, soothing method to the manage discomfort and prevent further episodes. In my practice I have worked with several clients who experience high levels of suffering from ongoing headaches and migraine episodes and they have all received significant relief from massage sessions.
To book a massage with Guy, call us at 403-347-3261, Family First Chiropractic 1452 Erickson Dr Red Deer. www.family1stchiro.ca