Headache & Migraine Relief with Massage Therapy in Brentwood, CA
Massage therapy to reduce frequency and intensity of tension headaches and migraines.
the root causes of your condition and provide lasting relief.
⚠️Signs You May Need This Treatment
You may benefit from this treatment if you experience:
Common Causes
- Muscle tension in neck/shoulders
- Stress and anxiety
- Poor posture
- Trigger points
How Massage Therapy Helps
Therapeutic massage addresses this condition through multiple mechanisms: reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, releasing trigger points, decreasing inflammation, and promoting natural healing responses.
Recommended Treatment Approaches
- Trigger point therapy
- Craniosacral therapy
- Upper body massage
What to Expect During Treatment
During your first visit, we conduct a thorough intake to understand your pain patterns, medical history, and treatment goals. Your massage session is customized to your specific condition and may combine multiple techniques for optimal results.
Treatment Frequency
Most clients experience significant improvement within 3-6 sessions. We typically recommend:
- Acute conditions: 1-2 sessions per week for 2-4 weeks
- Chronic conditions: 1 session per week for 6-8 weeks, then maintenance
- Maintenance: 1-2 sessions per month for ongoing relief
🎯What to Expect: Session Timeline
4-6 sessions for tension headache relief; ongoing maintenance for chronic migraines
Focus on neck, shoulders, and suboccipital muscles (base of skull). Gentle trigger point work to identify pain patterns without overstimulating.
Most clients report immediate relief from current headache during session. Reduction in frequency/intensity typically observed after 3-4 weekly sessions.
Note: Everyone responds differently. Timeline depends on condition severity, how long you've had it, overall health, and home care compliance.
🏠Home Care Between Sessions
Maximize your results with these self-care strategies:
Hydration Tracking
Dehydration is a top headache trigger. Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Add electrolytes if you exercise.
Screen Breaks
Follow 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 mins, look at something 20 ft away for 20 secs. Reduces eye strain that triggers headaches.
Suboccipital Release
Lie on your back with a rolled hand towel or "Still Point Inducer" under the base of your skull. Relax for 5-10 mins to release tension.
Magnesium
Consider magnesium supplements or Epsom salt baths (consult MD). Magnesium deficiency is linked to tension headaches and migraines.
Integration with Other Therapies
Massage therapy works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. We often recommend combining massage with other therapies such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or appropriate exercises for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can massage get rid of a migraine in progress?
For some, yes - especially if caught early. Cold stones and gentle lymphatic drainage can reduce inflammation. However, deep tissue work during a full-blown migraine can sometimes intensify it. We adjust pressure accordingly.
Is it normal to get a headache AFTER a massage?
Ideally no, but "post-massage headache" can happen due to dehydration or blood sugar changes. Drink plenty of water and eat a small snack after your session to prevent this.
Do you work on the face/scalp?
Yes! Face, scalp, and jaw massage are crucial for headache relief. Tight temporalis (temple) and masseter (jaw) muscles are common culprits.
Can massage help hormonal migraines?
Massage reduces cortisol and promotes relaxation, which can help balance hormones indirectly and reduce the severity of triggers, even if it doesn't eliminate the hormonal cause itself.
What if noise/light bothers me during the session?
Please tell us! We can dim lights further, use no music or soft white noise, and ensure the room is scent-free if you have sensitivities.
Does this help with sinus headaches?
Yes. Lymphatic drainage for the face and neck helps drain sinus congestion, relieving pressure and pain.
🔗This Treatment Also Helps With
These related conditions often improve with the same treatment approach: