Best Self-Care Practices for 2025: Why Massage Therapy Should Be on Your List

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues. It affects millions of people worldwide, with symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. While there is no definitive cure, various treatment options aim to manage symptoms, and one approach that has gained increasing recognition is massage therapy . Can Pensacola Massage Therapy Help Fibromyalgia Patients? Scientific research and anecdotal evidence suggest that massage therapy can offer real relief for fibromyalgia sufferers. The key benefits include: Pain Reduction – Massage helps to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and stimulate the body’s natural painkillers (endorphins). Studies have shown that regular massage therapy can decrease pain levels in fibromyalgia patients. Improved Sleep – Fibromyalgia often leads to sleep disturbances. Massage therapy promotes relaxation, which can enhance sleep quality and duration. Reduced Stress and Anxiety – Many fibromyalgia patients experience heightened stress and anxiety. Massage therapy encourages relaxation by lowering cortisol levels and increasing serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate mood. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility – Chronic pain can limit movement, but massage therapy can help loosen tight muscles and improve range of motion, making daily activities easier. Scientific Evidence Supporting Massage for Fibromyalgia Several studies have explored the effectiveness of massage therapy for fibromyalgia. Here are some notable findings: A 2014 meta-analysis published in PLOS One reviewed multiple clinical trials and found that massage therapy significantly reduces pain, depression, and improves quality of life in fibromyalgia patients . Research from the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology suggests that myofascial release therapy, a specialized type of massage, can improve symptoms in fibromyalgia patients after several weeks of treatment . A study in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork reported that manual therapy techniques, including deep tissue and Swedish massage, were associated with reduced pain and fatigue in fibromyalgia sufferers. Best Types of Massage for Fibromyalgia Not all massage techniques are created equal when it comes to fibromyalgia. Here are the most beneficial types: Myofascial Release – This technique focuses on reducing tension in the connective tissues, relieving chronic pain and stiffness. Swedish Massage – Known for its gentle, flowing strokes, Swedish massage helps relax muscles and improve circulation without excessive pressure. Trigger Point Therapy – Aims to release knots and tension areas that contribute to fibromyalgia pain. Lymphatic Drainage Massage – Supports the body's natural detoxification process, reducing inflammation and improving energy levels. How Often Should You Get a Massage for Fibromyalgia? The frequency of massage therapy depends on the severity of symptoms and individual response to treatment. Many patients find that weekly or biweekly sessions provide the most consistent relief. Over time, sessions can be adjusted based on improvements in symptoms. Finding the Right Massage Therapist For those with fibromyalgia, choosing a knowledgeable and experienced medical massage therapist in Pensacola is crucial. Look for a therapist who: Specializes in treating chronic pain conditions. Has experience working with fibromyalgia patients. Uses techniques tailored to your comfort level and symptom severity. Can adjust pressure and intensity based on your needs. At Medical Massage Pensacola , our therapists are trained in evidence-based techniques designed to help fibromyalgia sufferers manage pain and improve their quality of life. We customize treatments based on your symptoms and health history, ensuring a safe and effective approach. Conclusion Massage therapy is emerging as a highly effective complementary treatment for fibromyalgia. Backed by scientific research, massage offers relief from pain, stress, and sleep disturbances, making it a valuable part of a fibromyalgia management plan. If you’re struggling with fibromyalgia, consider incorporating regular massage sessions to experience these benefits firsthand. Are you ready to explore how massage therapy can help manage your fibromyalgia symptoms? Schedule a consultation with Medical Massage Pensacola today and take a step toward pain relief and improved well-being.

Whether you're a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or somewhere in between, pushing your body to its limits can lead to muscle fatigue, soreness, and even injuries. One of the best-kept secrets for peak athletic performance and faster recovery is medical massage therapy . Unlike a standard relaxation massage, medical massage is a targeted therapy designed to treat specific muscular issues, enhance circulation, and promote optimal healing. In this article, we'll explore how medical massage can help athletes recover faster, prevent injuries, and improve performance —making it an essential part of any training regimen. The Science Behind Medical Massage for Athletes Medical massage focuses on improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing muscle recovery . Here’s how it works: Increases Blood Flow: By stimulating circulation, massage helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles, speeding up recovery. Reduces Muscle Soreness: Deep tissue massage breaks down adhesions and helps flush out metabolic waste like lactic acid. Improves Flexibility & Range of Motion: Loosening tight muscles and fascia allows for greater mobility and reduces stiffness. Enhances Nervous System Function: Massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones that can interfere with recovery. Benefits of Medical Massage for Athletes 1. Speeds Up Recovery After Intense Workouts After an intense training session, muscles undergo micro-tears and inflammation . Medical massage helps repair these tissues faster by boosting circulation and promoting the release of endorphins , which act as natural painkillers. 2. Prevents Injuries & Reduces Muscle Imbalances Overuse, improper movement patterns, and muscular imbalances often lead to injuries. Medical massage helps by: Identifying and addressing muscle tightness before it leads to strains or tears. Improving postural alignment to prevent repetitive stress injuries. Enhancing joint mobility , reducing stress on muscles and connective tissues. 3. Enhances Athletic Performance Optimized muscle function means better endurance, power, and coordination . Regular medical massage: Helps maintain muscle elasticity , preventing stiffness and restrictions. Improves muscle contraction efficiency , allowing for stronger and more controlled movements. Reduces stress and anxiety , which can hinder peak performance. 4. Supports Post-Surgical Healing For athletes recovering from injuries or surgeries, post-surgical lymphatic drainage and medical massage can significantly reduce swelling, improve range of motion, and accelerate healing. Best Types of Medical Massage in Pensacola for Athletes 1. Deep Tissue Massage Targets deeper muscle layers to break up adhesions and release chronic tension . 2. Sports Massage A combination of techniques designed for pre-event warm-ups and post-event recovery. 3. Myofascial Release Focuses on releasing fascia restrictions , improving flexibility and reducing pain. 4. Lymphatic Drainage Massage Essential for post-surgical recovery, reducing swelling and inflammation . When Should Athletes Get a Medical Massage? Pre-Event: To warm up muscles, increase blood flow, and enhance flexibility. Post-Event: To speed up recovery, reduce soreness, and prevent stiffness. During Training: To maintain peak condition, correct muscle imbalances, and prevent injuries. Rehabilitation Phase: To support healing after injuries or surgeries. Why Choose Medical Massage Pensacola for Your Athletic Recovery? At Medical Massage Pensacola , we specialize in customized therapeutic massage for athletes . Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic muscle tension, or simply looking to enhance your performance, our expert therapists are here to help. Book a session today and experience the difference that targeted medical massage can make in your athletic journey! Conclusion Medical massage is more than just a luxury—it’s a science-backed tool for improving recovery, preventing injuries, and enhancing overall athletic performance. If you’re serious about optimizing your body for peak performance, incorporating regular medical massage into your training regimen can give you the competitive edge you need. Ready to take your recovery and performance to the next level? Schedule your appointment for the best Pensacola massage today!

The Hidden Toll of Desk Jobs on Your Body If you work a desk job, you know the struggle: tight shoulders, an aching back, and persistent neck pain. Hours spent hunched over a computer lead to poor posture, muscle tension, and even chronic pain conditions. While stretching and ergonomic chairs help, they often fall short in providing real relief. This is where medical massage therapy becomes a game-changer. How Sitting at a Desk Causes Pain Long hours of sitting place excessive stress on your musculoskeletal system, especially in three key areas: Neck Pain : Looking down at a screen or tilting your head forward strains the neck muscles, leading to stiffness and tension headaches. Shoulder Pain: Hunched shoulders cause muscle tightness and trigger points, leading to discomfort and restricted movement. Back Pain: Prolonged sitting weakens core muscles and strains the lower back, often resulting in poor spinal alignment and chronic pain. If left untreated, these issues can develop into long-term musculoskeletal disorders that impact your daily life and productivity. The Benefits of Medical Massage in Pensacola for Desk-Related Pain Medical massage therapy is not just about relaxation; it’s a targeted approach to addressing pain and dysfunction. Here’s how it helps: 1. Releases Muscle Tension Deep tissue and myofascial release techniques help break down knots and adhesions in muscles, restoring flexibility and reducing stiffness. 2. Improves Posture Massage therapy works to correct muscle imbalances caused by prolonged sitting, helping you maintain better posture effortlessly. 3. Enhances Circulation Poor circulation contributes to muscle fatigue and pain. Massage increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tense areas, promoting healing and relaxation. 4. Reduces Stress and Headaches Chronic stress often manifests as tight shoulders and tension headaches. Massage lowers cortisol levels and triggers the release of endorphins, your body’s natural pain relievers. 5. Supports Long-Term Pain Relief Regular massage sessions provide lasting relief, preventing the recurrence of neck, shoulder, and back pain associated with desk work. Best Pensacola Massage Techniques for Office Workers At Medical Massage Pensacola, we specialize in techniques specifically designed to alleviate desk-job-related pain, including: Deep Tissue Massage: Targets deeper layers of muscles to release chronic tension. Trigger Point Therapy: Focuses on specific knots that cause referred pain. Myofascial Release: Loosens tight connective tissue to improve movement and posture. Lymphatic Drainage Massage : Reduces inflammation and promotes circulation, particularly beneficial for those experiencing swelling or stiffness. Simple Tips to Prevent Desk-Related Pain While medical massage provides effective relief, incorporating these habits can prevent pain from returning: Adjust Your Workspace: Use an ergonomic chair, keep your screen at eye level, and maintain proper wrist support. Take Breaks: Stand up, stretch, and walk around every 30-60 minutes. Strengthen Core Muscles: Engage in exercises like yoga or Pilates to support your posture. Hydrate and Move: Staying hydrated and incorporating movement into your day reduces stiffness and promotes circulation. Book a Medical Massage and Feel the Difference If you’re struggling with persistent neck, shoulder, or back pain from your desk job, it’s time to take action. At Medical Massage Pensacola, we offer customized medical massage sessions to help you feel better and move freely again. Book your appointment today and start your journey to a pain-free workday!

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but when left unchecked, it can wreak havoc on your body and mind. Chronic stress contributes to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and even physical ailments such as muscle tension and headaches. If you’re struggling with stress-related issues, Pensacola massage therapy may be the solution you’ve been looking for. The Connection Between Stress and Your Body When you experience stress, your body releases cortisol and adrenaline—hormones that prepare you for a "fight or flight" response. While this reaction is helpful in short bursts, chronic stress keeps your nervous system in a constant state of high alert. This can lead to: Increased muscle tension and pain Higher blood pressure Suppressed immune function Disrupted sleep patterns Heightened anxiety levels Medical massage in Pensacola is a scientifically backed way to counteract these negative effects, offering both immediate relief and long-term benefits. How Medical Massage Reduces Anxiety Massage therapy isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a therapeutic approach designed to address stress-related conditions. Here’s how it works: 1. Lowers Cortisol and Increases Serotonin Studies show that massage therapy in Pensacola can significantly reduce cortisol levels while increasing serotonin and dopamine, the neurotransmitters responsible for relaxation and happiness. This hormonal shift helps lower anxiety and promote a sense of well-being. 2. Reduces Muscle Tension Stress often manifests physically as tight shoulders, neck pain, or headaches. Medical massage therapy ta rgets these tension-prone areas, releasing built-up muscle knots and restoring mobility. 3. Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System Unlike the "fight or flight" response triggered by stress, Pensacola massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the "rest and digest" system. This slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation throughout the body. The Role of Medical Massage in Improving Sleep Poor sleep and stress go hand in hand. If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, Massage therapy can help by: 1. Enhancing Melatonin Production Massage has been linked to increased levels of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles. A boost in melatonin can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. 2. Reducing Restless Leg Syndrome and Muscle Discomfort If muscle aches and restlessness keep you awake, medical massage in Pensacola can alleviate discomfort, making it easier to relax and drift into a deep sleep. 3. Lowering Heart Rate and Blood Pressure By promoting relaxation, Pensacola massage therapy helps slow your heart rate and regulate blood pressure, preparing your body for restorative sleep. Experience the Benefits of Medical Massage at Medical Massage Pensacola If stress and sleep issues are affecting your quality of life, medical massage may be the answer. At Medical Massage Pensacola , we specialize in therapeutic techniques that relieve tension, reduce anxiety, and promote restful sleep. Our expert therapists use evidence-based methods to help you achieve optimal relaxation and wellness. Book Your Appointment Today Don’t let stress take control of your life. Schedule a session at Medical Massage Pensacola and experience the profound benefits of massage therapy for yourself. Your body—and your mind—deserve it.

Introduction Chronic pain is a widespread issue affecting millions of Americans. Whether caused by injuries, arthritis, or conditions like fibromyalgia, persistent pain can significantly impact daily life. Traditionally, many turn to over-the-counter or prescription painkillers for relief. However, with growing concerns over opioid dependence, side effects, and long-term health risks, more individuals are seeking natural, sustainable alternatives. One of the most effective drug-free approaches is medical massage therapy . This therapeutic practice offers a holistic way to manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being. But how does massage therapy compare to painkillers, and why should you consider it as part of your chronic pain management plan? Let’s explore. The Downside of Painkillers Pain medications, including NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) and opioids, are commonly prescribed for pain management. While they provide quick relief, they come with notable drawbacks: 1. Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Risks Painkillers primarily mask symptoms rather than addressing the root cause of pain. Over time, individuals may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses for the same effect. 2. Potential Side Effects Long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to digestive issues, ulcers, and kidney problems. Opioids, on the other hand, pose a serious risk of addiction, respiratory issues, and even overdose. 3. Opioid Epidemic Concerns According to the CDC, opioid addiction has reached crisis levels in the U.S. Many people who start with prescribed painkillers for legitimate reasons end up struggling with dependency, highlighting the urgent need for safer alternatives. The Benefits of Medical Massage Therapy for Pain Management Unlike painkillers, medical massage therapy works to treat the underlying causes of pain rather than just suppressing symptoms. Here’s how: 1. Addresses Muscle Tension and Inflammation Chronic pain is often linked to muscle tightness, knots, and inflammation. Therapeutic massage techniques help release tension, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation naturally. 2. Stimulates the Body’s Natural Painkillers Massage therapy promotes the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine , which are the body's natural painkillers. These neurotransmitters enhance mood and provide long-lasting pain relief without the side effects of drugs. 3. Improves Mobility and Flexibility Unlike painkillers, which only provide symptom relief, massage therapy helps restore mobility and flexibility by breaking down adhesions and improving joint function. 4. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Chronic pain is often worsened by stress and anxiety. Massage therapy activates the parasympathetic nervous system , promoting relaxation, reducing cortisol levels, and improving overall mental well-being. 5. Personalized, Targeted Treatment Medical massage is tailored to an individual’s specific pain points. Whether you're dealing with back pain, migraines, or post-surgical discomfort, a trained massage therapist can use techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy to target the source of pain directly. Massage Therapy vs. Painkillers: The Verdict FactorPainkillersMedical Massage TherapyProvides Immediate ReliefYesYes (with consistent sessions)Treats Root CauseNoYesRisk of AddictionYesNoSide EffectsYesMinimal (mild soreness in some cases)Long-Term SolutionNoYesImproves MobilityNoYesSupports Mental Well-BeingNoYes Why Choose Medical Massage Pensacola for Pain Management? At Medical Massage Pensacola , we specialize in evidence-based massage therapy designed to alleviate chronic pain safely and naturally. Our skilled therapists use a combination of deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy, and myofascial release to help clients find lasting relief without relying on medication. Book Your Appointment Today! If you're tired of relying on painkillers and looking for a natural, effective way to manage pain, medical massage therapy is the solution you need . Contact Medical Massage Pensacola today to schedule a consultation and experience the benefits firsthand. Pensacola Massage: Your Local Solution for Chronic Pain For those searching for Pensacola massage services that go beyond relaxation and provide medical benefits, look no further. Our clinic is dedicated to helping clients achieve pain relief, improved mobility, and better quality of life through expert massage therapy. Final Thoughts While painkillers may offer temporary relief, they come with significant risks and do not address the underlying causes of chronic pain. Medical massage therapy provides a safe, long-term solution that promotes healing, improves function, and enhances overall well-being . By making the switch to massage therapy, you’re investing in a healthier, pain-free future—naturally.

If you’re searching for the best medical massage clinic in Pensacola, look no further than Medical Massage Pensacola. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain , recovering from an injury , or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, our clinic is dedicated to providing expert therapeutic care tailored to your needs. But what truly makes us stand out from the rest? Let’s explore why we are Pensacola’s top choice for medical massage therapy. 1. Expert Therapists with Specialized Training At Medical Massage Pensacola , our licensed massage therapists have extensive training in medical massage techniques. Unlike standard relaxation massage, medical massage is designed to address specific health concerns, such as: Chronic pain conditions (fibromyalgia, arthritis, sciatica) Sports injuries and rehabilitation Post-surgical recovery Migraines and tension headaches Stress-related muscle tension Each therapist is highly skilled in evidence-based techniques to ensure you receive the best care possible. 2. Personalized Treatment Plans for Every Client No two bodies are the same, and neither are our treatment plans. We conduct an in-depth assessment to understand your unique concerns and create a customized plan that targets your specific needs. Whether you require deep tissue therapy , myofascial release, or neuromuscular therapy, we tailor every session to maximize results and long-term relief. 3. Doctor-Recommended Therapy Many local physicians, chiropractors, and physical therapists trust Medical Massage Pensacola to provide complementary care for their patients. Our treatments are often recommended as part of a holistic approach to pain management and rehabilitation. If you’re recovering from an injury or dealing with a chronic condition, we work closely with healthcare providers to ensure you receive the most effective treatment possible. 4. A Relaxing, Professional Environment Healing begins the moment you step into our clinic. We provide a calming atmosphere designed to enhance your overall experience. From soothing music to comfortable treatment rooms, every detail is carefully curated to promote relaxation and recovery. Our goal is to help you feel at ease while receiving top-quality medical massage therapy. 5. Proven Results and Satisfied Clients We take pride in the positive impact we’ve had on our clients’ lives. Many of our patients have experienced significant relief from pain, improved mobility, and a better quality of life after just a few sessions. Our five-star reviews and client testimonials speak volumes about the effectiveness of our treatments and the dedication of our team. 6. Convenient Scheduling and Flexible Payment Options We understand that managing your health should be hassle-free. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend appointments, to fit your busy lifestyle. While we do not bill insurance, we accept HSA and FSA cards and can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Experience the Best Medical Massage in Pensacola If you’re ready to experience the benefits of expert medical massage therapy, Medical Massage Pensacola is here to help. Our specialized techniques, experienced therapists, and commitment to personalized care set us apart from the rest. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting pain relief and wellness. Schedule your session now! Call us at 850-876-0820 or visit our website at www.medicalmassagepensacola.com

There’s no doubt that many people look at their phones now more than they have real, direct interaction with others, whether it’s for work or entertainment. With this, you may have heard the term ‘text neck’ which is often used to describe the neck pain, postural issues, and potential damage sustained from looking down at your cell phone, tablet, or other wireless devices too frequently and for too long. There are some scary articles and photos about this issue all over the place. Some people state that this regular posture of looking down can increase the weight your neck is supporting anywhere from 27 to 60 pounds, putting some serious stress on all the structures of the neck and shoulders. Some articles state that you can change the actual state of your spine from text neck, losing the natural curvature of the neck and potentially causing disc, vertebral, and nerve issues. The truth is, our bodies are made to adapt to postural changes and are far more resilient than we often give them credit for. Now, just because our bodies are made to adapt doesn’t mean we should force them to, and it doesn’t mean that text neck isn’t still a potential problem to worry about. Any kind of prolonged abnormal posture or repetitive motion can eventually take its toll on the body, but there’s been a lot of fear-mongering on this topic that isn’t necessary. Instead of making you paranoid about the physical effects of your device usage, like people weren’t staring down at books and newspapers for hours on end before we these technological advances, take stock of how you’re feeling. If you notice tension or pain in your neck, shoulders, jaw, or even symptoms of nerve issues, like numbness or a pins and needles feeling down your arm, then this is definitely something to pay attention to and make some serious adjustments. If you’re not having any symptoms of a problem – no pain or other negative feelings around the upper body and head – then be mindful of your usage, but don’t think you need to completely change your habits. While less screen time would probably do you some good for a variety of reasons, you can’t expect to go cold turkey, especially if a big chunk of that usage is work related. Instead, try to make small adjustments and change as you can and need to, to help your neck stay healthy. Take a break every 30 minutes to move and stretch your neck, head, and arms. Raise your phone, computer, or tablet to eye level instead of looking down at them. Keep your posture in check throughout, ensuring your spine is comfortable and in a relaxed, neutral position. You shouldn’t live in fear of text neck, just be mindful of how your body feels throughout, like you should with any daily activity. Being aware of your body and posture while using any device can help reduce the risk of injury and pain. If you are noticing a lot of neck pain, and need some help, schedule a massage today.

The body is intricately designed with nerves, muscles, connective tissues, and so much more, that intertwine to form a beautiful structure capable of everything from minute movements to surviving in some of the harshest conditions on earth. But with these intricacies comes vulnerability, so it’s no surprise that we experience pain and injury from time to time. What you may not realize though, is that sometimes the pain you feel isn’t necessarily caused by something in the area you feel it. For example, when you have an injury to your hips or pelvis, it can often cause back pain. Due to the proximity of structures, the nerves that travel throughout the area, and the mobility of the joints throughout, your body and brain can interpret your hip/pelvic problem as back pain and your back problem as hip/pelvic pain. The lumbar region of the spine (lower back) houses all of the nerves that supply feeling and motor control to the entire lower body; from the low back itself to the hips, knees, and down to the tips of your toes. While this area can sustain a lot of abuse, due to the immense amount of movement it is capable of and the stress that our daily lives can put on it, it is also the most susceptible to injury. Here's a few reasons you may have this hip/back pain connection. A pinched nerve root at the lumbar spine due to a bulging or herniated disc may result in significant sharp pain along a nerve like the sciatic nerve which runs from the middle of the low back all the way down the back and side of the leg to the foot. Sometimes this pain stops at the buttock and at other times it may shoot all the way down to the toes. Your posture may also have an effect. This isn’t to say that you need to immediately “fix” your posture as that may not be necessary. What I’m referencing is more so when you begin to exhibit an abnormal-to-you posture, like suddenly sitting all day when you’re used to walking, or crossing your legs a lot when you haven’t before. These seemingly subtle changes may actually result in some significant shifts in the joints of the pelvis and spine, causing pain. If you haven’t had a major shift in how you sit, stand, or walk throughout your day, it may be that your posture has changed due to your pain rather than the other way around. The new posture you’ve adapted may be your body’s way of compensating for an injury or otherwise protecting itself from further damage. If your hips are off balance in some way, let’s say they rotate a little more toward the back than normal; what we would refer to as a posterior pelvic tilt, this puts unnecessary pressure on the lumbar spine. By the pelvis sitting in this backward rotation, even just a few degrees off, the pelvic bones begin to pull on ligaments and muscles throughout the hips, low back, and even the legs. This can cause you to round your low back more, putting even more pressure on that lumbar spine. It’s a little like the chicken and egg conundrum; although we may not be able to pinpoint which came first, it’s best to treat both to ensure the entire situation is resolved. These are just a few examples and showcase why we focus on a broader area than just your point of pain. So, when you arrive and complain of back pain, we’ll also be assessing and working with your hips to ensure we address the real problem to get you out of pain and back to life. Depending on the real problem, you may need massage, exercise, rest, stretching, or it may be best to see your chiropractor. To help you determine what’s really going on and how to move forward, make an appointment and let’s figure it out together so you can get back to doing what you enjoy.

Headaches are an unfortunate part of life for many people. They know no race or gender, and no matter who you are or how healthy you are, you’re at risk of having them. There are some people who experience headaches quite frequently, and others who very rarely have one. If you’re getting headaches on a regular basis, it’s worth your time to find out why and what you can do about it. Did you know there are different types of headaches, and different causes and treatments for each? Let’s take a look, so you can start to determine what’s the best plan of care for you. Tension headaches This type is very common and it’s likely that you’ve experienced this at one point or another. Tension headaches are often described as a dull pain throughout the head, generally located at the forehead, behind the eyes, at the base of the neck, and even in the jaws and cheeks. They usually last from 30 minutes to several hours and shouldn’t affect daily life too much, although you may need to make some adjustments. Tension headaches are often attributed to a decrease in blood flow to the head due to increased muscular tension and restriction through the neck, head, face, and jaw; usually triggered by stress, anxiety, dehydration, lack of movement, poor sleep, abnormal posture, and eye strain. Some gentle to moderate pressure massage along with stretching and mobilizations will often ease the tension and give you relief. If you can’t get in for a massage with us right then, you can massage the muscles of your neck, shoulders, and face yourself, or have a friend or family member help. Light exercise and stretching can help improve blood flow to the head and neck, and over the counter pain medications and anti-inflammatories can provide relief for some. If you find that you’re experiencing tension headaches often, regular massage sessions can help to decrease the frequency. Migraines Many claim to experience frequent migraines, but these are often confused with severe tension headaches. The differentiating factor is the presence or lack of neurological symptoms. While tension headaches, especially when severe, can be debilitating and very painful, they come without the neurological symptoms associated with a migraine. A migraine not only causes severe pain in the head, neck, and face, but is often accompanied by an abnormal sensitivity to light, sound, and smell, along with nausea and vomiting. About a third of migraine sufferers experience an aura (visual and sensory disturbance) prior to an incident which can last anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes. Auras include seeing zig-zag lines, flickering lights, spots, or partial loss of vision. Migraines can last a few hours to a few days and can be quite debilitating. Triggers of a migraine can span from stress, dehydration, sleep disruption, hormone imbalances, and even certain foods. Some find relief with over the counter medications, while others may require prescription level drugs. For many, a dark, quiet room and a few hours of sleep is often the only way to find relief. If you’re having frequent migraines, a visit with your doctor may be necessary. While regular massages have been shown to decrease the frequency of migraines, a massage to the head and neck is not advised while you’re in the midst of one. Instead, if you want to get a massage while you have an active migraine, the massage will be focused on your legs, feet, arms, and hands to counter the abnormal blood flow causing the migraine. Cluster Headaches This type is defined as severe, recurrent headaches that are experienced as an intense burning or piercing pain on one side of the head and behind or around one eye. Other symptoms associated with cluster headaches are eyes watering, swollen eyelids, runny nose, and restlessness or agitation. There is generally no warning and it may feel like the headache attacks out of nowhere, peaks within 10-15 minutes, and then is gone within 2-3 hours. Unlike several other types of headaches, cluster headaches are the only one that is far more prevalent in men than in women. Most of the time these attacks occur quickly and in clusters, anywhere from 3-8 times a day over a period of several weeks. What causes cluster headaches is unclear, however they seem to be triggered by smoking, alcohol consumption, strong smells, and may be linked to a genetic predisposition or previous head trauma. Over the counter and prescription medications are often the go-to treatment, but regular massage may also help prevent the frequency of these attacks. Exertional Headaches These headaches are triggered by sudden, strenuous, physical exercise like running, jumping, weightlifting, and even sudden severe bouts of coughing or sneezing. These are generally over as quickly as they come on, however they can last for several hours or even a few days at times. Exertional headaches are felt as a throbbing pain through the head and tend to be present in those with a family history of migraines. These headaches are usually extinguished with rest, over the counter medications, and massage. However, taking plenty of time to warm up prior to exercise can help to prevent them. Sinus Headaches This type of headache is common and occurs due to inflammation of the sinus cavities of the head. The pain is often felt in the forehead, around and behind the eyes, and along the cheeks. Because of the location of the pain, many people may confuse tension and sinus headaches, but they are quite different. Sinus headaches specifically will often be accompanied by congestion or a runny nose, along with tenderness over the sinus cavities, just above and below the eyes. Over the counter anti-inflammatories are a common treatment, as are massage therapy and steam treatments. If a sinus headache persists, especially with congestion and significant tenderness, you may need to see your doctor to rule out an infection or other condition. Cervicogenic Headaches This term encompasses any headache caused by an abnormality within the neck. Oftentimes this is due to some ligament laxity or misalignment of the cervical (neck) vertebrae causing pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that travel to the head. These are often felt along one side of the head and follow a pretty distinct pattern from the base of the skull, wrapping over the top of the head, and ending just above or behind the eye. These seem to be more common in those who have a history of whiplash or other neck injuries and are often triggered by abnormal posture. Massage and retraction exercises can allow the proper movement of the vertebrae, reducing the pressure on those nerves and blood vessels, and alleviating the pain. Whether you deal with one of these types of headaches on a regular basis or find yourself needing relief in the midst of them, we’re here to bring you comfort and relief.