Can Massage Therapy Help Cluster Headaches?

Posted: August 12th, 2019

Overcoming Painful Headaches

There are several types of headaches, but a cluster headache is known as the worst variety to have. The pain from these particular types of headaches is excruciating, making an individual unable to function. Patients describe the pain as if someone is sticking a knife or an ice pick into one of their eyes and into the brain. With a cluster headache, an individual may have additional symptoms that include a runny discharge from the eyes, sinus congestion, and severe nausea. For many individuals, the only relief from the pain is an injection of painkiller that promotes sleep, but these types of headaches tend to occur in clusters, so a patient may want to seek other ways to overcome the pain.

 

Relief with Bodywork

The exact cause of these painful headaches is unknown. Relieving stress and relaxing the muscles or tendons of the body may prevent a recurrence. This is why going to a day spa for massage therapy is recommended. A massage on the neck, head or face can relax the vagus nerve that many researchers believe is responsible for the pain from this type of headache. The vagus nerve works closely with the digestive tract, lungs, and heart. So bodywork on the abdomen and chest is also helpful.

 

Request a Spa Treatment

When you consult with a licensed massage therapist at the day spa, inform them about your painful cluster headaches. Trigger-point massage therapy is a highly recommended spa treatment for these types of headaches. It is better to schedule massage therapy several times a week before the headaches occur as a preventative measure. Make sure to discuss this type of spa treatment with your primary physician.  Continue to use the medications that are recommended for your headaches.