By Linda Jung RMT, BComm
Registered Massage Therapist

The majority of the population has experienced a headache in their lifetime, with tension headaches being the most prevalent. Tension-headaches are often associated with poor posture, immobility and stress.

When held in a certain position for a prolonged period of time, muscles contract and become tight. Within these muscles, trigger points, irritable nodules or “knots”, can develop. Together, they can produce local or referred pain (non-localized pain) and generate a tension headache (if the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders are involved).

In my practice, I see many patients who have tension-headaches from tight muscles or trigger points. These patients are treated effectively with massage therapy. I work on the affected muscle(s) to enhance circulation, to reduce tension and to release the trigger point(s). By reducing muscle tension and releasing trigger points, patients report that their headaches are diminished in intensity and frequency. They also report improved sleep and a reduction in stress.

To prolong treatment effects, patients are given muscle stretches and strengthening exercises and tips on postural awareness to reduce the occurrence of their headaches. As muscles become “re-educated”, follow-up visits can significantly reduce the chances of a return tension-headache by working on those affected muscles. I also encourage patients to practice and foster good breathing habits everyday to relieve stress and muscle tension.

In addition to massage therapy for the treatment of tension headaches, I find that my patients also benefit from the integration of naturopathic and chiropractic therapies.

Keeping the body agile along with good spinal health, a healthy diet and exercise all play an integral role in improving posture, health and reducing stress. Actively addressing these can make a world of difference in overall well-being, including tension headaches.

I have been working as a registered massage therapist in Toronto for the past 4 years. I treat a multitude of conditions including tension headaches, trigger points, pre and post natal massage, and trauma and complex care (motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries).

For more information on tension headaches, registered massage therapy, and how our team can help, please give the clinic a call at 416-926-0084.

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