There is hardly anyone who has not suffered from a headache. Some headaches may begin at any time of the day, and then continue for as long as it doesn’t receive treatment. Headaches can come with different symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light or sounds, and pain in the temples, head, and forehead. If you experience a headache frequently, and it carries on for an extended period of time, there is a possibility that these headaches may even cause a disruption in your work.
One of the easiest and most effective treatments for headaches is a massage. Apart from allopathic medicine, massaging is considered to be the best alternative treatment. Massage is also all natural, and therefore, you can save yourself from unnecessary side effects that come with the over the counter medicines.
Another symptom of headaches is pain in the neck. Massage can also help relieve the soreness and tension in the neck region. There are two types of headaches, muscle and vascular. If you have a headache due to muscle tension, it can cause aching in the neck and sensitivity in the neck and the scalp. The muscles behind the head and the neck seem tense and hard. There is a tightening in the temples, forehead, and the base of the skull. Vascular headaches on the other hand, feel like a throbbing or pounding sensation. Vascular headaches usually increase with physical activity, and it is important to take adequate rest to treat the headaches.
Massage therapy can be used to relieve both types of headaches. Massage can also help relieve spasms. To relieve a headache, begin with a massage, using small strokes and medium pressure. You can use a warm oil for the massage or simply warm up your own hands before beginning with the massage. This will help dilate the blood vessels so that the blood flow to the brain increases. Start at the base of the neck, from the point where the shoulders meet the neck. Work your way upwards, working the length of the neck and the base of the skull before you reach the forehead. Once you have reached the forehead, massage the temples lightly and work towards the center of the head. Use circular and oblique strokes to improve blood flow and relieve pain.
If you receive massage on an ongoing basis, it is possible to prevent headaches in the future. Regular practice of yoga mediation and other relaxing techniques can also help ease muscle tension and keep the stress levels low.