How Massage Therapy Can Help with Chronic Headaches and Migraines in Downtown Edmonton

Dec 1

If you’ve ever felt a tension headache creeping in after a long workday or been knocked out by a migraine that just won’t quit, you’re not alone. Chronic headaches and migraines affect thousands of Edmontonians — and often show up during the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s stress, screen time, posture, or jaw clenching behind the pain, massage therapy offers a clinically supported and natural approach to both short- and long-term relief.

At Strive Holistic, our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) provide personalized, evidence-informed treatments in downtown Edmonton that go beyond surface-level fixes. We aim to relieve your current discomfort while addressing the deeper causes of your headaches, so you can get back to work, sleep, and life with more ease.

Understanding the Link Between Muscle Tension and Headaches

Most chronic headaches are connected to muscular tension — not just head pain in isolation. Strain in the neck, shoulders, upper back, jaw, or even scalp can create a ripple effect that leads to:

Tension headaches
Migraines
TMJ-related headaches
Cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck)

This muscle tightness can compress nearby nerves, create pain referral patterns, or restrict blood flow — all of which contribute to chronic head pain.

Massage therapy helps disrupt this cycle by releasing tension, improving circulation, and calming the nervous system. At Strive Holistic, we use a variety of techniques depending on your symptoms and how your body responds.

Techniques We Use for Headache Relief

Each session is tailored to your unique needs, but often includes:

Craniosacral Therapy – A gentle technique that works with the rhythm of cerebrospinal fluid and subtle skull movement. It’s especially helpful for migraines and nervous system regulation.
TMJ Massage – Focused work on the jaw to release tension from clenching or grinding, which is a common (and often missed) source of chronic headaches.
Neck & Shoulder Release – Therapeutic massage that targets overworked muscles like the upper trapezius and suboccipitals that can compress nerves or refer pain to the head.
Myofascial Release – A technique that softens tight fascia around the head, neck, and shoulders to restore healthy movement and relieve built-up pressure.

By combining these techniques with mindful pressure and trauma-informed care, we help reduce the frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches — while also supporting better sleep and mental clarity.

What to Expect from Your Massage for Headaches

At Strive Holistic, your first appointment includes a short intake and functional assessment so we can understand your symptoms and possible contributing factors. From there, your massage therapist will develop a personalized approach.

Some clients find relief after a single session, while others benefit from consistent care over time. Whether your headaches are frequent, cyclical, or triggered by specific stressors (like posture or hormonal changes), we’ll adjust your treatments as your needs shift.

We believe massage should evolve with your body — not follow a one-size-fits-all protocol.

Local, Personalized Care in Downtown Edmonton

Located inside Evolve Strength in downtown Edmonton, our massage clinic is easy to access whether you live, work, or commute through the city center. We offer direct billing, flexible booking options, and a relaxing, welcoming environment designed for real healing — not just a temporary fix.

Book Your Massage for Headache Relief Today

If headaches or migraines are interfering with your daily life, Strive Holistic can help. Our experienced RMTs are ready to support your body with care that feels thoughtful, professional, and deeply effective.

Book your massage today and take the next step toward long-lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can massage therapy really help with migraines?

Yes — research supports that massage can reduce migraine frequency and intensity by improving circulation, relieving muscle tension, and lowering stress.

What type of massage is best for chronic headaches?

It depends on the cause. Craniosacral therapy, TMJ massage, and myofascial release are commonly effective, but a personalized approach always works best.

How quickly will I notice results?

Some clients feel immediate relief, while others see a gradual reduction in headache frequency after 2–3 sessions.

Can massage therapy help if my headaches are caused by posture or work stress?

Absolutely. Massage can directly address the muscular tension caused by desk work, screen time, or poor posture — especially in the upper back, neck, and jaw.