My Head is Killing Me… Can Massage Really Help?
Tension headaches, migraines, eye strain—there are few things more disruptive than head pain. Massage can be a powerful tool for managing both the physical and nervous system components of headaches, and regular bodywork often reduces their frequency and intensity.
Types of headaches massage can help with:
Tension headaches: caused by tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, or scalp
Cervicogenic headaches: referred pain from restricted movement or misalignment in the neck
Migraines: while more complex, massage can help reduce frequency by addressing triggers like stress and muscle tension
How massage helps relieve headaches:
Identifies and addresses common pain patterns such as tight suboccipitals (base of the skull) and overworked upper trapezius muscles
Uses precise techniques like sustained pressure and cross-fiber friction to relieve built-up tension
Releases trigger points in muscles like the upper traps, suboccipitals, and SCM
Increases blood flow to the head and neck
Reduces nervous system overstimulation
Calms the vagus nerve, helping to shift from a sympathetic (fight-or-flight) state
What to expect in a headache-focused massage:
Assessment to identify referral patterns and tension zones, especially around the head, neck, and upper thoracic spine
Gentle work around the scalp, neck, and upper back
Myofascial release and slow pressure to reduce muscular compression
A calm, quiet atmosphere to soothe sensory overload
When to consider massage for headaches:
You notice they start after long periods at a screen or desk
You wake up with tightness in your neck or shoulders
Stress makes your headaches worse or more frequent
You’re looking for a natural, preventative approach
A personal story: When I was teaching at a massage school, I started experiencing ocular migraines. My trigger was bright light—especially when I stood in the beam of the projector during lectures. The first few times, I temporarily lost vision in one eye, and it was incredibly frightening. I didn’t yet know what was happening, and like many people, I assumed the worst.
Once I understood it was a neurological event triggered by light sensitivity, I began receiving massage focused on my suboccipitals and the muscles around my eyes. That targeted work brought real relief. The improvement in circulation made a noticeable difference, and although I still have to be mindful about lighting, I haven’t had a full episode in years.
Massage may not stop a migraine in progress, but it can help reduce the triggers and patterns that contribute to chronic headaches. With consistency, many clients report fewer episodes, reduced severity, and a deeper sense of control over their symptoms.
