A randomized, controlled trial of massage therapy as a treatment for migraine

"Compared to control participants, massage participants exhibited greater improvements in migraine frequency and sleep quality during the intervention weeks and the 3 follow-up weeks. Trends for beneficial effects of massage therapy on perceived stress and coping efficacy were observed. During sessions, massage induced decreases in state anxiety, heart rate, and cortisol."

"The findings provide preliminary support for the utility of massage therapy as a non-pharmacologic treatment for individuals suffering from migraines."

Source: Annals of Behavioral Medicine