Massage Therapy for Headaches & Migraines
Neck tension, jaw tightness, stress, and muscle irritation can all contribute to headaches and migraines. Many people experience headaches related to tight muscles throughout the neck, shoulders, upper back, and jaw, especially during periods of stress, long hours at a desk, poor posture, or increased physical tension.
At Aeris Physiotherapy, Health and Wellness, our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) provide personalized massage therapy treatments to help reduce muscle tension, improve mobility, and support recovery from tension-related headaches and migraines. Our goal is to help you move, feel, and function more comfortably in your daily life.
Common Symptoms Associated with Headaches & Migraines
Headaches and migraines can present differently from person to person. Some individuals experience occasional mild discomfort, while others notice recurring pain, tension, or sensitivity that affects work, sleep, exercise, and daily activities.
Common symptoms may include:
Tension headaches
Jaw tension or clenching
Muscle tightness around the head and upper back
Headaches related to stress or posture
Pain at the base of the skull
Neck stiffness and reduced mobility
Sensitivity to prolonged sitting or desk work
Muscle tension contributing to migraine symptoms
Many people notice their symptoms worsen during stressful periods, after long hours at a computer, poor sleep, or prolonged muscle tension throughout the neck and upper body.
How Massage Therapy Can Help Headaches & Migraines
Registered Massage Therapy may help reduce muscle tension and improve mobility throughout the neck, shoulders, jaw, and upper back. Many headaches are associated with tight muscles, stress-related tension, and postural strain that can contribute to ongoing discomfort.
Massage therapy may help:
Reduce neck and shoulder tension
Relieve stress-related muscle tightness
Improve mobility throughout the neck and upper back
Reduce trigger points and muscle irritation
Promote relaxation and recovery
Improve posture-related discomfort
Support overall stress management
Treatment is tailored to your symptoms, comfort level, and goals.
Common Causes of Tension Headaches & Muscle-Related Migraines
Stress & Muscle Tension
Stress commonly causes individuals to tighten the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and jaw. Over time, this tension can contribute to headaches and ongoing discomfort.
Desk & Computer Posture
Long hours sitting at a desk or computer may place ongoing strain on the muscles of the neck and upper back, contributing to muscle tightness and tension-related headaches.
Jaw Clenching & TMJ Tension
Jaw tension and clenching can overload the muscles surrounding the jaw, temples, neck, and shoulders, contributing to headaches and facial discomfort.
Poor Sleep & Recovery
Sleep quality, sleeping posture, and recovery habits can all influence muscle tension and headache symptoms.
Physical Activity & Muscle Tightness
Exercise, lifting, sports, and repetitive activities can sometimes contribute to tightness throughout the neck and shoulders if recovery and mobility are limited.
What to Expect During Your Massage Therapy Appointment
Your appointment begins with a discussion about your symptoms, health history, and treatment goals. Your RMT will then tailor treatment based on your comfort level and areas of tension.
Treatment techniques may include:
Deep tissue massage
Trigger point therapy
Myofascial release
Relaxation-focused massage
Stretching and mobility techniques
Jaw and surrounding muscle treatment when appropriate
Pressure and treatment techniques are always adjusted to your comfort level.
Massage Therapy for Stress, Posture & Muscle Tension
At Aeris Physiotherapy, Health and Wellness, we commonly help office workers, students, athletes, and active adults experiencing headaches and muscle tension related to stress, posture, jaw tension, and physical activity.
As a multidisciplinary clinic, our Registered Massage Therapists also work closely with our physiotherapists and kinesiologists when additional rehabilitation support is beneficial.
Why Choose Aeris for Massage Therapy in Port Moody?
Patients choose Aeris Physiotherapy, Health and Wellness because we provide:
Personalized Registered Massage Therapy treatments
Experienced and evidence-informed RMT care
Direct billing to many extended health providers
Convenient online booking
Same-week appointments often available
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation support
Care tailored to your goals and comfort level
We proudly serve patients from Port Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can massage therapy help headaches?
Massage therapy may help reduce muscle tension throughout the neck, shoulders, jaw, and upper back that can contribute to tension-related headaches and discomfort.
Can massage therapy help migraines?
Some individuals find massage therapy helpful for reducing muscle tension, stress, and postural strain that may contribute to migraine symptoms. Treatment approaches are individualized based on your symptoms and comfort level.
Do I need a referral for massage therapy in BC?
No. You do not need a referral to see a Registered Massage Therapist in British Columbia. However, some extended health plans may require a referral for reimbursement.
Is massage therapy covered by insurance?
Most extended health plans in British Columbia include coverage for Registered Massage Therapy. Direct billing may also be available depending on your provider.
How often should I get massage therapy for headaches?
Treatment frequency depends on your symptoms, lifestyle, stress levels, and goals. Some individuals benefit from short-term frequent treatment, while others attend periodically for ongoing maintenance.
Book Massage Therapy in Port Moody
At Aeris Physiotherapy, Health and Wellness, we provide physiotherapy, kinesiology, and Registered Massage Therapy in a collaborative setting focused on helping you move, recover, and return to your daily activities. We proudly serve patients from Port Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and surrounding communities.
No referral required
Direct billing available for ICBC, WorkSafeBC, and many extended health providers
Same-week appointments often available
Convenient online booking
Trusted by 150+ patients across the Tri-Cities with 5-star Google reviews
If you are experiencing headaches, neck tension, jaw tightness, or stress-related muscle tension, our team is here to help. Book your RMT appointment today.