Can Massage Therapy Help With Headaches and Migraines?
If you suffer from tension headaches or migraines, you know how disruptive they can be to your daily life. While over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief, many people are turning to massage therapy for headaches as a natural, long-term solution.
At Salt & Sage Healing in St. Petersburg, Florida, we offer massage therapy designed to relieve head and neck tension, improve circulation, and calm the nervous system—three key elements in managing headache and migraine symptoms.
What Causes Headaches and Migraines?
Headaches can be triggered by a variety of factors including:
- Muscle tension (especially in the neck and shoulders)
- Stress and anxiety
- Poor posture
- Hormonal changes
- Dehydration or lack of sleep
Migraines often have more complex neurological roots but can also be influenced by physical and emotional tension. Massage therapy can play an important role in reducing these underlying triggers.
How Massage Therapy Helps With Headaches
1. Releases Muscle Tension
Massage targets the muscles in your neck, shoulders, scalp, and jaw—common areas where tension builds up and contributes to headaches. Releasing that tension can bring immediate and lasting relief.
2. Improves Circulation
Increased blood flow helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removes toxins that can contribute to inflammation. Improved circulation can reduce the frequency and severity of both tension headaches and migraines.
3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Stress is a major trigger for many headache sufferers. Massage therapy lowers cortisol levels while increasing serotonin and dopamine, helping you feel more relaxed and balanced.
4. Promotes Better Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for headache prevention, especially for migraine-prone individuals. Massage supports deeper, more restorative rest, allowing your nervous system to recover.
5. Encourages Postural Awareness
Poor posture—especially from hours spent at a desk or on a phone—can contribute to chronic headaches. Massage helps correct imbalances and improve your body awareness, making it easier to maintain proper alignment.
Best Types of Massage for Headache Relief
At Salt & Sage Healing, we recommend the following massage techniques for headache management:
- Swedish Massage – A great option for overall relaxation and stress relief.
- Deep Tissue Massage – Effective for releasing chronic muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders.
- Reflexology Massage – Targets specific pressure points that correspond to the head and nervous system.
- Custom Blended Sessions – We often combine techniques based on your specific pain patterns and preferences.
What to Expect During Your Session
When you book a massage for headache relief at Salt & Sage Healing, you can expect:
- A thorough intake to understand your headache history and triggers
- Focused work on the neck, shoulders, scalp, and jaw
- A calm, supportive space designed to reduce overstimulation
- Tips for managing tension between sessions (e.g., posture adjustments, stretches, or breathing exercises)
When to Schedule a Massage for Headache Relief
You don’t have to wait until a headache hits to benefit from massage. In fact, regular sessions can help reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms.
Consider booking a session if:
- You experience frequent tension headaches
- You’re recovering from a particularly intense migraine
- You feel muscle tightness building in your neck or shoulders
- You’re going through a stressful period or sleep disruption
Book a Massage for Headaches at Salt & Sage Healing
Whether you’re dealing with chronic migraines or occasional tension headaches, massage therapy offers a natural, drug-free way to feel better. Let our experienced team at Salt & Sage Healing help you find lasting relief.
Schedule your session today and discover the benefits of massage therapy for headaches and migraines.