Migraines and Other Headaches

Some methods of migraine treatment are nonmedicinal.

• Sleep: Sleep is one of the most effective treatments for migraine headaches. For some people, a nap or a full night's sleep is all that is needed to beat the pain.
• Ice: An ice pack on your aching head will probably not cure your headache, but it may make it feel better for a while.
• Exercise: Exercise may seem like the opposite of relaxation, but many people find that exercise helps to calm them down. Exercise can make some headaches worse, but for other headaches, exercise is a pain reliever.
• Massage: A massage always feels good, especially to those with tension or chronic daily headaches. You don't need a professional massage. Find someone who is willing to rub or knead those oh-so-sore neck and head muscles. Touch is a powerful pain reliever.
• Individual and Group Therapy: Psychological therapy won't relieve your headaches completely. But therapy can help to relieve stress and depression, which are frequent contributors to headaches.