Can massage trigger migraines?

It's no secret that stress and tension can trigger the onset of a migraine attack. Massage, one of the most popular wellness therapies, is widely recognized as a relaxing activity. But can the treatment also trigger migraines? To find out the answer, we need to look at the different types of massage and their effects.

The pinnacle of massage is the deep tissue massage. This type of massage is aimed at relaxing all the muscles of the body and relieving tension, as well as removing congestion in the muscles. Most people experience a sense of mental and physical relaxation after a deep tissue massage. However, studies have shown that this deep form of massage can sometimes cause headaches and other symptoms associated with migraines. Therefore, it is important to remember that such treatment forms should not be recommended for people with a pre-existing risk of migraines.

Besides deep tissue massage, there are other types of massage, such as shiatsu massage and Thai yoga massage. These techniques typically offer only light touch and are therefore very safe for people with a pre-existing risk of migraines. The effect of these techniques is mainly based on acupressure - the pressure of certain energy points in the body - as well as stretching tactics and rhythmic movement patterns. Here, too, positive results in terms of stress reduction and relaxation are clearly observable.

In general, massage is unlikely to cause migraines, but you should always consult your doctor or therapist before deciding on any treatment - especially if you have a pre-existing risk of migraines or have had symptoms in the past. In any case, there's no doubt that massage can help relieve stress and reduce muscle tension - which could ultimately help prevent migraine attacks more effectively!