Treating headaches and migraines with the Jing Method

Welcome to the first part of my blog series on treating headaches and migraines. Given the complexity and richness of this topic, which is closely related to my area of specialism, TMJ massage, I've chosen to divide it into two parts, and possibly even three... let's find out!

Let me share some stats with you to begin with...

Did you know that approximately 15 - 23% of adults in the UK experience migraines [migrainetrust.org]? Despite migraines being more prevalent than asthma, epilepsy, and diabetes combined, only about 40% of those affected receive a correct diagnosis, and 70% do not get suitable treatment [migrainesurgery.co.uk]. Additionally, migraines are most common among working-age adults and are nearly twice as prevalent in women compared to men [link.springer.com]. Around 52% of the global population suffers from some form of headache disorder, including tension-type headaches (TTH) and cluster headaches [link.springer.com]. Although migraines receive more attention, tension-type headaches represent the majority of primary headache cases observed in primary care.

In addition to TMD, headaches and migraines are among the most frequent reasons individuals seek advanced clinical massage treatment with me, and I encounter these cases multiple times a week in my home clinic. If you or someone you know experiences headaches or migraines, you understand how debilitating and disruptive they can be to every part of life. I often hear stories of people missing numerous workdays and even contemplating leaving their jobs, as well as skipping or avoiding social gatherings because of their headaches and migraines. For these individuals, life can become quite challenging.

If you are among the many affected, these images may resonate with you...

You can see the referred pain patterns from myofascial trigger points in the upper and lower trapezius, and SCM (sternocleidomastoid) muscles. In my experience these muscles are always involved when it comes to treating headaches.

So, can massage and especially the Jing Method of advanced clinical massage, help?

Yes. Most types of massage are beneficial as it...

• Reduces Muscle Tension: Tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and scalp are common migraine triggers. Massage loosens these areas, improving blood flow and reducing strain.

• Improves Circulation: Better blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the brain, helping flush out toxins and reduce pain signals.

• Balances Stress Hormones: Massage lowers cortisol (stress hormone) and boosts serotonin and dopamine, which can reduce migraine intensity and frequency.

• Calms the Nervous System: Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing overstimulation that can trigger migraines.

  
  

More specifically, an advanced clinical massage using the Jing Method stands out because of how it targets the primary muscles associated with headaches and migraines. It addresses the particular trigger points in the muscles that are known to produce the local and referred pain patterns experienced by those suffering and shown in the pictures above.

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An effective treatment begins with an excellent consultation, which is fundamental to the Jing Method of advanced clinical massage and my approach as a therapist. This step is crucial for me to understand if the individual seeking treatment is experiencing migraines, headaches, or both. Although migraines and headaches may appear similar, they have notable differences; for instance, auras may accompany migraines but not headaches. Additionally, each condition requires a different treatment approach, making it essential to first understand the specific issue.

Here at Mandala Massage Brighton, a treatment with me is YOUR treatment, there is no such thing as one size fits all, we'll plan together during the consultation to ensure it is everything you want and need it to be. 

My approach is trauma-informed, and I work in collaboration with the people who choose me as their therapist. This means that during your consultation, I will take a detailed case history about your headaches and migraines, including hearing about any other treatment you may have had or be having. We will also discuss and plan together exactly how you would like your treatment to be, whether there are any parts of your body you do not want to have touched or parts of your body you would like to keep covered for the duration of the massage. We'll talk about positioning, making sure you are comfortable on the massage table, and anything else you may be concerned about. All of this is relevant and is so important to you having a good experience. 

It's highly likely, for the treatment of headaches, trigger point therapy will be a significant part of your treatment. The trapezius, and other important muscles, the SCM (sternocleidomastoid) and temporalis, are all treated thoroughly during a Jing Method advanced clinical massage with me as your therapist. I use gentle fascial techniques to begin with, often with heat such as hot stones or a hot water bottle, before treating any trigger points, so that the person on my massage table feels comfortable enough to drop in to their parasympathetic (or rest and digest, the opposite of fight and flight) nervous system state. This slow and mindful way of working is part of the HFMAST approach which is integral to the Jing Method (more about this another time!). For the treatment of migraines, the slower myofascial techniques, and gentle cranial work, can be more easily tolerated and beneficial.

The picture below shows me treating a trigger point in the trapezius muscle, known for holding more trigger points than any other muscle in the body. This muscle is a significant contributor to pain in the head, neck, and shoulders, often causing referred pain around the ear, extending into the head, and occasionally reaching the jaw, as illustrated in the picture above. Initially, the treatment may feel intense, but the tension melts away as the trigger point releases.

What does the research say? Are there studies to show us that massage does indeed make a difference?

Yes, here are a few examples...

• A U.S. study found that people receiving two massages per week for 5 weeks had less migraine pain, more headache-free days, and better sleep compared to a control group. [webmd.com]

• A New Zealand study showed weekly massages reduced migraine frequency and improved stress management and sleep quality. [webmd.com]

• A WebMD review suggests massage may work as well as preventive medications like propranolol and topiramate for certain individuals.

• Pakistan RCT (50 participants)Massage therapy reduced pain intensity from 7.2 to 3.5 on a 10-point scale, compared to minimal improvement in the control group. [researchgate.net]

• Trigger Point Self-Massage for Tension-Type Headache A study comparing self-massage to medication found significant reductions in headache intensity and duration, making massage a safe and effective alternative. [Efficacy o...n-type ...].

Most importantly...

What do the people coming to me for treatment of headaches and migraines have to say?

"I've been struggling with headaches and neck pain. Nicky tailored the session to focus on these areas. Her approach was soothing and effective. What made the session even more valuable was that Nicky took the time to teach me how to release tension in these areas myself, a real game changer" Fiona N.

"She checks in with me on what areas I'd like to focus on for the massage and if I've been experiencing any pain or tension that needs to be addressed. I always feel so light and relaxed afterwards and have noticed so much improvement in my migraines" Frances M.

"Nicky is an amazing therapist. She really knows her stuff and quickly sorted out my neck and shoulder pain, making my headaches so much better. Thank you!" Dani W.

You can see more reviews on the Google Business listing for Mandala Massage Brighton.

Thanks for reading. I'll share part 2, which will focus on self-care and tips you can use at home and at work to help with your headaches and migraines in between treatments, soon!

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If you're keen to know more about the Jing Method of advanced clinical massage and how it may be able to help your headaches and migraines, you can book a free 15 minute Discovery Call

If you'd like to book in for treatment, and have not been to me before, please choose New Client Advanced Clinical Massage 

Reduced rate treatments are available for parent carers of SEND children and young people. 

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Written by Nicky Mandala

BTEC Level 6 Advanced Clinical and Sports Massage Therapist and TMJ Specialist