Massage for Headaches and Muscle Tension

Tension-type headaches are different from migraines, but they're a regular visitor for many clients. They often start with a tight, achy band across the forehead or the back of the head and creep through the day until it's hard to think straight.

The muscular pattern behind them

Tension headaches often involve overworked muscles in the upper traps, the neck and the base of the skull. Trigger points in these muscles can refer pain into the head, jaw and behind the eyes, which is part of why simple pain relief often only partly works.

How massage may help

Trigger point therapy and remedial work into these specific muscles may help relieve the pattern. Heat — including hot stone work — can also be deeply soothing for clients whose shoulders are constantly tight.

If you experience migraines

Migraines and tension headaches are different. If your headaches involve aura, visual changes, nausea or you're unsure what type they are, talk to your GP. Massage isn't a substitute for medical care, but it may be a helpful piece of the puzzle alongside it.

If you'd like to talk through what's going on with your body and book a session, get in touch with Sarah on 0439 594 999 or book online. Private health insurance rebates may be available depending on your provider and level of cover.