Migraine can be a persistent and debilitating condition, especially when frequent episodes of pain interfere with work, sleep and everyday activities. For some people, associated neck and shoulder tension may add to their discomfort, making it important to consider individual symptoms and possible contributing factors.
At Sparkle Massage in Hobart, we take an individualised approach to remedial massage, considering not only areas of muscular tension but also daily habits and movement patterns that may contribute to discomfort.
This case study shares our clinical experience working with a client who experienced almost daily migraines for approximately one year, exploring how targeted remedial massage and changes to sleeping position were associated with significant improvement in their reported symptoms.
Presenting Symptoms
The client reported experiencing migraines for approximately one year, occurring almost daily. The pain was described as radiating and was rated 8/10 on a pain scale, with a significant effect on daily comfort.
Assessment
The assessment found considerable muscle tension in the shoulders and tightness in the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscles, which run along the sides of the neck. The rotator cuff muscles, which stabilise the shoulder joint, were also identified as a key area of focus.
Treatment Approach
Remedial massage targeted the rotator cuff muscles, shoulders and related neck muscles. Hot stones were applied to help relax muscle tension, and herbal oil and infrared light were used with the aim of supporting circulation and muscle recovery. Treatment was adjusted to the client’s presentation and response.
After the first session, the client reported substantial relaxation, and pain decreased from 8/10 to 5/10. With weekly treatments, pain fell further to 3/10 after three sessions, and the client reported that symptoms no longer interfered with normal daily activities. However, headaches could still return after periods of heavy work or fatigue.
Exploring Contributing Factors
Rather than focusing only on the painful areas, the therapist and client worked together to explore possible contributing factors. This identified the client’s habitual sleeping position as a possible contributor: the client regularly slept on their stomach, which keeps the neck rotated for long periods.
We recommend the client to avoid stomach sleeping and to try side or back sleeping, alongside continued remedial massage regularly.
Outcome and Follow-Up
After combining targeted massage with a change in sleeping position, the client reported that the migraine symptoms eventually resolved. The client later had two pregnancies and gave birth to two children, with no reported return of the previous symptoms.
Discussion
This case highlights the value of individual assessment. Massage may have helped reduce muscle tension and discomfort, but the cause of migraine cannot be established from a single case, and the improvement may also have been influenced by other factors, such as the change in sleeping position. Sleeping position may have contributed to neck discomfort, but it should not be assumed to be the only cause of migraine.
Book Remedial Massage for Migraine in Hobart
At Sparkle Beauty Spa & Massage – Hobart, remedial massage is tailored to each client’s presentation. Considering muscle tension, daily habits and possible contributing factors together may help guide a more individualised approach to managing discomfort.
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