Massage for Headaches?

Headache symptoms
Headache symptoms depend on cause of headache and will vary from person to person.  Pain can range from dull to sharp and be located anywhere on the head or neck.

Headache Causes
Headaches can be caused by: stress,  muscle tension, poor posture, bony misalignment in spine, sleep deprivation,  TMJ (Tempomandibular joint dysfunction) dehydration, and hunger.

Treatment for headaches
Depending on the individual and the severity of the headache treatment options could include massage of head, neck or face muscles, stretching, heat, rest, and sometimes exercise. Chronic headaches that are related to poor posture should be treated with a thorough posture program.

What you can do for a headache
Simple things that you can do for a headache are: rest, stretch, apply heat to neck and shoulders, drink water, eat, and light exercise. 

Comments:
Most headaches are resolved within a day or so. If a headache is severe or lasts more than a day without improving, it is a good idea to seek medical advice just in case something more serious is causing the headache.
Frequent headaches related to working in a field that requires a lot of computer work or prolonged periods of standing may indicate a postural dysfunction. If this is the case, a specific program to improve posture is the only long term solution.
Registered Massage Therapists are trained to treat and give homecare advice for headaches.

This information is not intended to replace medical advice. Please contact a primary healthcare provider before starting any self care program for headaches.