Indian Head Massage for Headaches & Tension

A calm wellbeing guide by ScalpEase, Atherstone

A lot of “headache” discomfort actually starts with tension elsewhere — especially the neck, shoulders, jaw, and scalp. Long hours at a laptop, driving, stress, or poor posture can keep these muscles slightly tight all day… and eventually your head can start to feel heavy, tight, or pressured.

Indian Head Massage is a gentle treatment focused on the upper body. It’s not a medical treatment, but many people use it as a supportive way to relax and release tension that may be linked with tension-type headaches.

How tension-type headaches usually feel

Tension headaches are often described as a dull ache or a “tight band” feeling around the head. Some people also feel tenderness in the neck and shoulders. (If you suspect migraines or severe headaches, always speak to a healthcare professional first.)

Why tension can turn into head pressure

When the muscles around the neck, shoulders, scalp and jaw stay tight for long periods, they can contribute to a feeling of pressure and sensitivity. Stress can make this worse, because the body naturally braces and holds tightness without you noticing.

How Indian Head Massage may help

• Releases tight muscles around the neck, shoulders, and scalp
• Encourages deep relaxation (helps the nervous system shift into “rest mode”)
• Soothes scalp tension and improves comfort in the upper body
• Helps you breathe slower — many people feel calmer and more settled after

Who may benefit most

• People who work at a desk or spend hours on screens
• People who carry stress in the shoulders, jaw, or upper back
• People who feel tightness in the scalp or “pressure” around the head
• People who want calm, gentle relaxation (seated, oil-optional)

When to avoid massage

Avoid massage (or get medical advice first) if you have: fever, infection, concussion/recent head injury, severe unexplained headaches, a new headache pattern, or any condition where touch is not advised. If your headaches are intense, sudden, or unusual for you, seek medical advice.

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Research references

• NCCIH – Massage therapy for health (evidence overview + mentions tension-type headache trial): Read
• NCCIH – Massage therapy: what you need to know (includes the tension-type headache RCT citation): Read
• AMTA – Position statement: massage can be effective for tension headaches: Read
• PubMed – Myofascial trigger point-focused head & neck massage trial (Clinical Journal of Pain, 2015): Search on PubMed

This article is for general wellbeing information only and is not medical advice.