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Massage and Allergies
There are lots of treatments out there for those of us who suffer allergies, and sadly, most of them either don’t work or only work on a few symptoms. Sometimes something that used to work doesn’t work anymore, which is also super frustrating when all you want is to be able to breathe. A seasonal allergy is when your immune system thinks things such as dust mites and pollen are invaders and responds as if it were an invader/pathogen.
Aches from allergies
Along with all that sneezing usually comes tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and even face pain. Even after a few weeks on an antihistamine, the muscle tension remains. Massage therapy provides fast relief from these secondary effects.
Along with all that sneezing usually comes tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and even face pain. Even after a few weeks on an antihistamine, the muscle tension remains. Massage therapy provides fast relief from these secondary effects.
Sinus pressure
Ever have the urge to press on your eyebrows or the bridge of your nose when you have a sinus headache? The simple act of applying counter pressure does feel good, but there are specific massage techniques that actually help sinuses drain, decreasing the pressure from the inside. Lymphatic drainage massage is also helpful.
Ever have the urge to press on your eyebrows or the bridge of your nose when you have a sinus headache? The simple act of applying counter pressure does feel good, but there are specific massage techniques that actually help sinuses drain, decreasing the pressure from the inside. Lymphatic drainage massage is also helpful.
Accommodations
Getting massages during allergy season is challenging. Lying face down causes pressure headaches and makes stuffy noses much worse. Getting off the table after a massage may make you dizzy, and your muscles may be extra tender from sneezing, coughing, and nose blowing. Massages help move fluid around in the body, too. So it’s helpful to make sure that the sinuses can properly drain without gravity hindering them.
Getting massages during allergy season is challenging. Lying face down causes pressure headaches and makes stuffy noses much worse. Getting off the table after a massage may make you dizzy, and your muscles may be extra tender from sneezing, coughing, and nose blowing. Massages help move fluid around in the body, too. So it’s helpful to make sure that the sinuses can properly drain without gravity hindering them.
For treating the shoulders and back, lying on your side is the best option to prevent sinus pressure and to insure that you can comfortably breathe and relax. While I generally keep the spine aligned, adding an extra pillow to prop up your head is a good measure to aid in proper drainage.
For treating the neck and face, you’ll be lying on your back, with your torso propped up. It’s particularly important here, since you’ll probably be getting your sinuses and lymph treated.
A note about essential oils and aromatherapy
Rosemary and eucalyptus have been shown to make nasal passages feel cooler, due to the presence of menthol. While I understand how much better they can help some people feel, out of consideration to people with sensitivities and certain health concerns, I do not allow oils or diffusers in my office.
Rosemary and eucalyptus have been shown to make nasal passages feel cooler, due to the presence of menthol. While I understand how much better they can help some people feel, out of consideration to people with sensitivities and certain health concerns, I do not allow oils or diffusers in my office.