Tension headaches and Massage

12 July 2023

What are Tension headaches?

Tension headaches can be very uncomfortable and distracting. Along with the pain you may also have a stiff neck and reduced mobility in your neck and shoulders. Tension headaches can often stem from tight muscles and fascia in your neck. Stress is often a trigger for this. Dehydration also contributes to muscle tension.

There are a number of ways that you can reduce the amount of tension headaches you have and to alleviate the symptoms.

How can massage help with tension headaches?

Massage will ease the tension in your muscles and fascia and allow for a greater flow of blood to relieve the stiffness and tension. This in turn will help to improve your mobility in your neck and shoulders and reduce pain and discomfort.

The happy hormones that we have in our body including serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin are released during a massage treatment which will help your nervous system to communicate with your brain to allow for a deeper feeling of relaxation.

Aside from massage, reducing stress by making lifestyle changes is often key to reducing the frequency of tension headaches. Regular physical activity will also help to keep tension at bay by encouraging movement in the joints and allowing joint fluid to move with ease.

Tension headaches can be managed well and even eliminated by being proactive in booking treatments and allowing yourself the opportunity for some self care.

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Author: Cross Massage Therapy