Can foot massage help with migraines, cluster headaches, and other annoying headache types? It certainly can. Not only is this a feel-good answer, but it also has scientific backing, and gives all of us an excuse to further investigate how we can benefit from fewer headaches and more frequent foot massages. We’ll help you understand the tangible benefits of using foot massage for the treatment of headaches while helping showcase the emerging science and the already existing science behind these benefits. Additionally, we hope to help you get on the right track to start getting rid of headaches more easily while enjoying the ancillary benefits of foot massage.

Are there studies that show clinically controlled data that proves foot massage is good for headaches?

The good news is that Reflexology and foot massage related clinical studies are on the rise, and there has been a strong sentiment towards increasing credibility for the practices. While it is still not considered a fully fleshed out practice option, it is showing major interest from grant funders and program developers as well. 

Here are some specific clinical studies that have been performed regarding the foot massage’s impact on treating headaches:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30028477/

https://cyberleninka.org/article/n/781417.pdf 

What types of headaches can be helped with a foot massage?

It’s important to note, that even outside of the “Reflexology” scope, most stress-induced headaches can be addressed at some level by foot massage, and other types of massage. The relaxation effect of a foot massage alone is enough to tame many headaches brought on by stress. 

Migraines get special treatment because of their link to internal organs and specific placement in the brain. As a result, reflexology can shine with the treatment of migraines. Some cluster headaches or stress headaches are more externally oriented and can be addressed differently, but don’t have as many outlets as migraines for treatment. That said, a great foot massage is usually enough to provide some relief for all types of headaches, so you need not be a reflexology expert to gain some relief.   

Is it as easy as simply using a massager or manually massaging my feet?

Sometimes, yes. If you are doing all the best practices, like staying hydrated and using an appropriate diet, and avoiding triggers, additional relief could be as easy as some basic work with an automated foot massager and some basic "hand to foot" work. 

The way you approach the situation will have a direct impact on the treatment outcomes. Be sure to vet any new concepts that promise relief without some proof. Those studies cited above help determine the safety and efficiency of methods for the treatment of Migraines and other headaches like Cluster headaches.  

Points to consider when using foot massage to help reduce headache symptoms

• You don’t need to have another person giving you a massage to truly get the benefits of the process. An automated consumer model foot massager is enough to start the treatment; paired with your manual manipulation, you can expect great returns on investment. 
• Some headaches are brought about by environmental or activity factors. If you get cluster headaches when you play intense 5-on-5 basketball with your friends 3 times a week, you might need to address multiple avenues when dealing with symptoms. Sure, a foot massage will help with a reduction in the headache symptoms, but so can relaxing and reducing the physical exertion to a minimum.  
• Be realistic. You can get great therapy from a foot massager and some basic reflexology concepts, but the more you research and put into practice, the better your outcome will be. 
• Time will reveal additional technique adaptations and clues to getting better efficacy - so try to be on the lookout for new studies as they happen. This particular scenario is a popular study concept. 
• Many Migraine sufferers (and some other sufferers of specific chronic headaches) require medication and support from a medical professional. Consult with your doctor and let them know any positive effects of foot massage to help them understand that you are addressing the condition from multiple levels.