Migraine Massage

A Migraine Massage is a therapeutic approach targeting muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders with the goal of reducing migraine pain, frequency, and intensity. Techniques include Swedish massage, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, and sometimes craniosacral therapy, tailored to the individual’s symptom pattern and tolerance.​

Signs & Symptoms

  • Throbbing or pulsating pain, often one-sided and ranging from moderate to severe

  • Associated symptoms: light/sound sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, vision changes (aura)

  • Tension or knots in the neck, upper back, scalp, or jaw

  • Headache worsened by movement, stress, and sensory stimulation

  • May last hours to days and recur episodically.​

Contraindications

  • Avoid massage during acute, severe migraine attacks if touch increases pain or sensitivity (defer until symptoms reduce)​

  • Do not treat over areas of acute trauma, skin infection, or recent head/neck injury

  • Caution for clients with unexplained neurological changes, uncontrolled vascular conditions, or medication reactions​

  • Deep tissue or trigger point work should be adjusted for pain response and never force pressure

Assessment

  • Document headache frequency, triggers, duration, and aggravating/alleviating factors

  • Palpate scalp, neck, shoulders, and jaw for muscle tightness, trigger points, and referred pain patterns

  • Assess postural and stress contributions (screen sleep, hydration, ergonomic factors)

  • Monitor for any “red flags” such as sudden onset, confusion, weakness, or visual loss warranting referral.​

Treatment

  • Use gentle Swedish massage (long strokes, kneading) on neck, shoulders, and upper back for relaxation and improved circulation​

  • Trigger point therapy and myofascial release to deactivate knots referring pain to the head​

  • Deep tissue techniques as tolerated, focusing on areas of chronic tension but with mild pressure during attacks

  • Craniosacral, scalp massage, and gentle circular strokes or holding may provide soothing sensory input

  • Acupressure or pressure-point techniques at brow, temples, base of skull, and hands may relieve pain​

  • Aromatherapy (lavender or peppermint oil) can support relaxation if not contraindicated​

Self Care

  • Daily self-massage: light strokes or gentle kneading to scalp, neck, and shoulders​

  • Heat or cool packs to neck, scalp, or forehead as needed for comfort

  • Practice stress management, regular exercise, hydration, and sleep hygiene

  • Minimize triggers such as monitor foods, hormonal fluctuation, and sensory exposures

  • Maintain ergonomic posture at workstations, and take regular movement breaks​

  • Seek medical review for persistent, worsening, or unusual headache patterns