Pros and Cons of Bodywork for Migraine

By Holly Harding

1 min read

Migraine is a physically demanding condition. The disease makes it hard to sleep, and the severity of pain results in tight musculature in the neck and back as we brace ourselves through each attack. Vomiting can also cause pain and challenges with structural alignment. For these reasons and more, it can be helpful to pursue various types of bodywork to proactively release sore muscles and to pursue better alignment.

Which body therapies can help with migraine?

In this video, Holly will discuss the pros and cons of various types of bodywork as it relates to migraine.

In the comment section below, we invite you to share your experiences with bodywork and how it has impacted your migraine condition. We look forward to learning from you.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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DarylM Member
I get chiropractic care every week and deep tissue massage every other week. There are days where I felt like I ran 3 miles but I laid on a table for an hour and a half. It is better than the side effects of medicine even though it is more expensive for me.
1. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 Yes! Yes! 100% Yes <inline-mention username="Rebecca C" user-id="3677527"/>!
2. DarylM Member
 <a href='https://migraine.com/stories/a-quick-adjustment#comment-thread' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/stories/a-quick-adjustment#comment-thread</a>
Prettymomma Member
Hi Holly, what an interesting video! I have done most of the alternative therapies as well to help provide some relief. One of the most effective ways for me is called a massage hammer. My husband got me one a few months ago. I am a weird one... None of the massages I received got as deep as I really needed it to be. I find that the most pressure that I put on those areas the better that it feels. So...... Now I have a massage hammer and I have to say it feels incredible on the back of my neck. I don't do it for very long, and I do it on a very low setting, but I really do feel that it makes my neck feel so much better. Thank you Holly, I really appreciate you and all of your helpful advice! You are such a sweet and kind person, and I love how much you care about everyone so much in this community. Take Care!😀
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> _ thank you for the kind words and the information on the massage hammer. I have one of those as well but ultimately found even it was too rough on my neck. Maybe it's the kind that I purchased, but there's no way to make it low- it's just really intense! So glad it works for you and I totally agree that sometimes the efficacy of a massage is dependent on how deep the therapist goes. Sometimes it's just not close to enough as I need to make a difference! As always, grateful for your insights! Keep them coming! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team. 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> this sounds really interesting! I've never hear of a massage hammer, but it sounds like it's been effective for you. How would you describe it? I'm wondering if it's like one of those massage wands that they often use on athletes. Either way, I'm intrigued!
azreynolds Member
Holly, It sounds like you already know quite a bit about this sort of thing. I did massage therapy and Chiropractic work for decades, but when I lost my job and had to go on Medicare I could no longer afford such luxuries. Since my spine is so twisted, I find that I need to have something to relax my muscles and hot Epsom salt baths don't always cut it. Therefore, I bought a TENS unit at the advice of a physical therapist. She actually pulled it up on my phone and saved it so I would know exactly what to purchase. Mine only cost $35, and I use it on a regular basis on my shoulder and back muscles. The only problem is here in the United States we are advised not to put the electric pads on our neck or head, however in the UK there are directions on exactly where to put the pads on your head and your neck. I don't know why there would be a difference on one side of the ocean or the other, but I follow the instructions that I've been given 
1. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 Wow! That sounds like a really creative and cost effective alternative. That's fantastic the physical therapist gave you such a great recommendation. It's a bummer about the restrictions on the head and neck, and, yes, I agree it's odd that the restrictions would be different. One other thought I wanted to share is that a foam roller can be really effective for releasing tension in the spine and they're budget-friendly too. I have one that I love. It could be something to ask your physical therapist about as well. 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 I'm definitely checking this out. I haven't heard of it before but it sounds like a few people here have tried it. <inline-mention username="konditoralex" user-id="3793805"/> is it something that is effective to release a migraine or is it something that you use to prevent a migraine?
azreynolds Member
<inline-mention username="Cody Leach" user-id="4536970"/> Well, my biggest "go to" for migraines will always be ice/heat back and forth. I bought one of those hat wraps for your head. The ones that go all the way around. It's too cold when it first comes out of the freezer, so I have a thin cotton cloth that I put on my head first, and then put the wrap around my face. But after a few minutes it gets warm enough to wear so I can take the cotton cloth off and just have the wrap on. It has been a lifesaver for me. But while I'm wearing this, I also have a heat blanket that I wrap around my shoulders and neck. The combination of the hot and the cold seems to work for me. I think that's why the Elbow Trick works so well. That's where you get a bowl of hot water... as hot out of the tap that your elbows can stand, and a bowl of ice water, literally with ice cubes in it. Stick your elbows in them. Leave them there for about 10 minutes and if it doesn't break the migraine, switch it around and try another 10 minutes. Often this will break a migraine that nothing else seems to be working on. But it's a bit of a hassle to do when you are sick with migraine, and it's messy. But it has worked for many people that I know of!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> - WHA????? How have I never heard of the elbow trick??? You've been keeping this one to yourself, Annzie! This is fascinating to me as I've heard from multiple people that the combination of ice and heat seems to disrupt their attacks or at the very least decrease the intensity of them. I wish they would do a study on this to help us understand how and why this works. You are a wealth of wisdom, my dear. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team. 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> oh my goodness ice is my go-to. It feels so good! The colder the better. I haven't alternated with heat, but it sounds like that's something that's really been effective for you!
konditoralex Member
I go to an Upper Cervical Chiropractor who is specially trained in how to work with the neck & head. He does adjust my entire back while at it but his focus is on the alignment of the neck and it really makes a difference. Most days I'm a bit sore from my spine being adjusted but after a few hours, usually with a heating pad it feels much better for days to weeks. I've gone through years of spinal injections & ablation which last varying amounts of time and are expensive, especially now they don't cover you being put under. I once freaked out because I wasn't deep enough & woke up with a needle at my spine. The Cervical Chiropractor is good as an adjunct to the Pain Management ablation. It falls in a grey area as far as the insurance is concerned because they cover Chiropractic to a degree and he only charges me what my co-pay would be and writes off the rest. A really good guy and not the typical in the medical community.
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="konditoralex" user-id="3793805"/> As Holly states, such great information you offer. I am currently in the process of going through spinal injections and ablations. I've trialed the injections for (cervical RFA) ablation in my neck but failed. So now having trigger point injections to loosen up and release the tight muscles. I did have cervical manipulation years ago and it helped to a point, but now that my neck is fused at c5,6, 7, it is definitely frowned upon. So very glad you are getting relief from the manual therapy. Wishing it was still an option for me. P.s. It must have been horrifying not being in a deep enough sleep and waking during the procedure. Thanks for sharing what works to help manage your migraines. With regard ~ Rebecca (community moderator) 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="konditoralex" user-id="3793805"/> that's encouraging to hear that the benefits can last up to weeks for you! It sounds like going to a specialized chiropractor has been really beneficial! I didn't think to ask about their specialities, but it's a great tip for anyone who's considering chiropractic care.
konditoralex Member
Rebecca, You might want to look into an Upper Cervical Chiropractor, the one that I see knows about my back issues and works around them. I was told never to see a chiropractor because of several bulging discs, a partially herniated one, etc...but he is so careful of what he works on that I don't worry. He does have patients with fusions but with his training he knows what not to touch. He and my PM have actually spent time in each others practices to see how they work towards the same goal & can compliment the other. My PM actually sent all of those on his staff to get an initial assessment & 2 adjustments so that they would understand it better. I know that his PA whom I see still goes there as well as one of the nurses. 
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 It's amazing that you've found 2 wonderful practitioners who "partner" in your care, <inline-mention username="konditoralex" user-id="3793805"/>. I will definitely look into an upper cervical chiropractor to help, as I am at the end of my rope with pain, stiffness, radiculopathy, migraines, chronic daily headaches, jaw pain, etc. Thanks for the encouraging words. There's nothing better than having a care team that envelope you in healthy practice and root for your well-being. Warmly Rebecca (community moderator)
Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> I have used chiropractic work in the past. Unfortunately, my insurance limits the number of visits per year and the copay is pricey. My insurance does not cover acupuncture. My pain doctor really recommends that I try acupuncture too. They also want me to do aqua physical therapy but it is also pricey. It is definitely easy to get prescription medications than it is to try alternative therapies. It is very frustrating. - Amanda W (team member)
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Amanda Workman" user-id="3715820"/> - So true. Alternative therapies are much harder to attain than western medications. It's frustrating as likely combining the two approaches would only strengthen the efficacy of both. Thanks for chiming in on this. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Amanda Workman" user-id="3715820"/> it's frustrating for sure. Let's hope insurance companies get onboard with it soon! in the meantime, I wonder if there are some shower stretches you can do that would be helpful. In the shower our muscles warm up and can be more receptive to stretching. Perhaps it could help!
kateymac Member
<inline-mention username="Amanda Workman" user-id="3715820"/> <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> The expense IS is difficult. I had a friend in Belgium who had terrible pain. Everything he needed was covered. Physical therapy, HOME physical therapy, massage, chiropractic, 100% also on all doctors, specialists, tests, whatever! It almost made me cry when he mentioned it. Those “universal coverage” crying jags are DEEP SEATED that I’m shocked by it each time! (Like when watching a documentary about other country’s systems) It tells me that this fear of not having needed medical care is kind of an ongoing trauma and a stressor that’s always closer to the surface than I think it is. Kate 🌷
1. Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="kateymac" user-id="3784217"/> I definitely understand where you are coming from with that one. I do not know anybody overseas so I only know what I have seen on TV or occasionally see on here. But it is crazy to me that there is a place where individuals do not have to worry about being able to afford medical tests and coverage. My health issues started when I was in High School with my mom trying her best to manage my medical care for endometriosis and slowly it became my own concern. It is frustrating to know that there are treatment options that could help you drastically but they are not affordable to most here in the US. I know affording my medical care is a huge stressor that I believe I have just learned how to live with daily. - Amanda W (team member)
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="kateymac" user-id="3784217"/> that's incredible that your friend was able to get such amazing coverage. It definitely make me jealous as well! I have heard that while those in other countries have free healthcare, they often have to wait months to get the appointments they need. I guess nothing comes easy. We have easier access but it comes at a cost - one that is often out of reach for many of us. In the meantime, I'm grateful that we have a lot of people here sharing some good low-budget options for us. Hopefully you're able to find one that helps.
cdmarsh Member
 Thanks for the video, Holly. I have been greatly helped by acupuncture - it both relaxes my muscles and gives me a feeling of deep peace. And I also do somatic stretches several times a week. I took a $50 course last October that sent emails every day for 60 days, teaching and reviewing several different somatic stretches. This has been the best practice for me because after the initial, minimal expense, I do them at home for free. I've kept up the practice now for nine months and it has become an important part of my pain and migraine management.
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 Hi! Just want to echo Nancy in saying I've never heard of somatic stretches, and Holly in thanking you for your willingness to share. The reason we have so much content on such a wide variety of topics is because people are willing to share their experiences ... will be keeping an eye out with interest. Sounds like a great addition to any toolkit, especially if it helps nurture your body while you ride out an attack. Good stuff. -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 I can't wait to read it <inline-mention username="cdmarsh" user-id="3694623"/>! I don't know much about somatic stretches so I'm curious to learn about it. Thanks for being willing to share your experience with us. Best - Alene - <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
Sufferagette Member
I’ve found acupuncture to be held as well. My Medicare insurance does pay some of it. Again, it doesn’t last and needs repeating every few months!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Sufferagette" user-id="6780078"/> - Thank you for sharing this with us. I'm surprised to hear Medicare covers this treatment. Wonderful and glad you've found something helpful to manage migraine. Keep your resources and thoughts coming! Great to learn from you. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team. 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks for sharing <inline-mention username="Sufferagette" user-id="6780078"/>! I'm a big fan of acupuncture myself! I do it about twice a month and it helps with so many health aspects. That's great you got some coverage with it too
Sufferagette Member
Correction: should read: HELPFUL not “held!”
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Sufferagette" user-id="6780078"/> Thank you for sharing this with us. I've not tried acupuncture but have heard from many who find it beneficial. Are you on a regular acupuncture schedule? Looking forward to hearing from you, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
Sufferagette Member
Yes, I go a few times a year for relief of headaches and “nervous tension” build-up from the stressors of life (I am recovering from several years of orthopedic surgeries and other ailments).
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Cody Leach" user-id="4536970"/> - oh that’s cool and interesting to hear. I didn’t realize it was a key part of your regimen. Thanks for sharing this. It’s always interesting to learn what works for others. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 Weekly acupuncture sounds amazing <inline-mention username="Cody Leach" user-id="4536970"/>! I go every other week and love that as well.
Sufferagette Member
Medical trauma and chronic pain and reliance on pain medication can certainly trigger migraines as well.
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Sufferagette" user-id="6780078"/> I agree about medical trauma and migraine disease, in fact all disease. Between medical trauma and gaslighting living with chronic illness is exhausting. I'm sending you pain free wishes, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
I'm such a big fan of bodywork Holly! It's one of my most effective ways to manage migraine. I agree the expense and the limited time effect on them are definitely the downsides, but they have been lifesavers for me over the years. Chiropractic care is my least favorite. Acupuncture and cranial sacral therapy are my favorites! Of course I'll never turn down a good massage either! And, yes, I agree on the detox experience afterwards too. It's always important to drink LOTS of water after bodywork - which that in and of itself can be beneficial!
Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Alene L. Brennan, RYT" user-id="3663804"/> - Thanks for chiming in on the topic of bodywork. Wonderful to have your insights and expertise on this topic. I tried craniosacral therapy years ago and found it didn't help me- but when I pursued Rolfing recently- that practitioner was educated in craniosacral therapy so she incorporated that into one of my sessions. It was most helpful. I may have to look into that again. Thanks also for the reminder to stay hydrated. So hard to do when we are living with migraine due to the side effects of medications (which can be dehydrating) atop symptoms like nausea/vomiting. Thanks again for sharing! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.