About Migraines
What it is:
Migraines are the result of severe vasoconstriction (tightening of blood vessels and veins) followed by sudden vasodilatation (release of restricted blood in the veins). The pressure exerted by blood against the vessel walls causes excruciating pain. The cause of the blood vessels restricting and releasing are still widely unknown. This can make the treatment of migraines difficult.
Signs and Symptoms:
Migraines usually occur on one hemisphere (side) of the head. People often have visual disturbances, called auras, which may vary from seeing spots, stripes, blurred vision or temporary blindness. Sensitivity to light and sound are also prevalent. Migraines occur in both men and women however women are 80% more likely to have them. They often begin during puberty and usually end after menopause suggesting a correlation to estrogen production.
How Massage Can Help
Migraines begin with the constriction of blood vessels. When muscles around these blood vessels become tight, dehydrated or restricted, it can put pressure on the vessels, and create the restriction of blood flow. So by working with and releasing muscles, its possible to help prevent migraines. Massage treatments for migraines often include deep tissue or neuromuscular therapy and areas worked usually include shoulders, neck and head. Massage also lowers blood pressure and helps reduce stress levels, which both play a part in migraines. Working with your massage therapist you can help track and monitor progress and determine what works for you.
How You Can Help Yourself
There are however triggers that have been known to contribute to the cause of migraines. Avoiding some of these triggers may help decrease the intensity or frequency of migraines. Triggers may vary from person to person, so its important to get to know yours. Keeping a migraine journal is a good start: recording your food intake can really help.
A few known triggers include:
nuts, red wine, cheeses, chocolate, salt, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, sugar, cigars or cigarette smoke, lack of sleep, lack or exercise, too much exercise, bright lights, loud sounds and stress.
When To See Your Doctor
Always keep all of your health care professionals advised of treatments and medications. Migraines can sometimes be linked to epilepsy and strokes, so be sure to discuss all treatment options with your doctor. Call 911 immediately if your speech begins to slur during a migraine or if the migraine begins after a head injury as these could be signs of a more severe condition.
What Your Therapist Should Know
Be sure to let your therapist know of any medications you are taking including blood thinners, epilepsy medications, muscle relaxers, heart medications and pain medications. Also share any other medical conditions, or ailments. Please also know that there are some medications or conditions that do not respond well to all types of massage. Letting your therapists know about all of these things helps ensure that you receive the proper care. Feel free to bring in any migraine journals you may be keeping or share with us anything you have questions about!
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Article by: Abigail Steiner, CMT @ Symmetry Therapeutic Massage