From a massage and neuromuscular therapist's perspective, who has dealt with many auto accident victims, there are a few good reasons why you might experience headaches after an accident. Knowing these reasons can save you a lot of pain. First make sure you have not had any head trauma which is something you need to have checked out by your regular doctor or a head trauma specialist. Be wary of taking a lot of prescription pain medications especially when there has been no diagnosis.
Also be aware that Post Traumatic Stress can lead to tension headaches after an accident. Irregular or disturbed sleep and jaw clenching are common symptoms because of stress which can result in headaches. There are important ways that you can take care of two of the main headache muscles related to an auto accident. You can help yourself a great deal by knowing how to treat these 2 muscles.
The sternocleiodomastoid muscle: This muscle runs from behind the earlobe, heading down the neck and diagonally across the front of the neck into the sternum. You can find it easiest by lying flat on your back and lifting your head up. This muscle stops the head from being jilted too much during an accident but afterwards it can become hypertonic, (tight), and/or weakened The SCM has many trigger points running along it that can cause headaches.
Massage the SCM: To reduce pain by massaging the SCM, first move your head to the same side you are working on. This prevents you from grabbing anything but the muscle. With your thumb and pointer finger (turned inward), grab then squeeze all along this muscle. You will probably feel tender points and if you do hold these points a little longer. Breathe deeply. Keep going up and down squeezing the muscle, then switch sides and do the same on the other side.
Range of Motion Stretch: Stretch this muscle by tilting your head to a 45 degree angle bringing your chin to your chest then bring your head back to position and lift it backwards, again at a 45 degree angle. Do this to each side at least 5 times.
The upper trapezius muscle: This muscle is located by running your fingers along the top of your shoulder up into the neck area. Begin at a point approximately 1 1/2" from the joint connecting your arm to your shoulder. Follow it into where it attaches to the head at the ridge between the upper neck and head. This muscle also has many trigger points running along it that can cause headaches.
Massage the UT: The upper trapezius muscle can be treated by squeezing along with your thumb and first 2 fingers up into the upper neck region. You will probably be able to feel tension where it attaches into the neck area and if so make sure you press deeply here, rubbing back and forth. Switch to the other side and do the same.
Range of Motion Stretch: Lift your right arm over your left ear, pulling the head down towards the top of the shoulder. Make sure you keep your left shoulder relaxed and down. Stretch the left upper trapezius out as far as you can. Now using arm pressure, slowly move the head in small circles with the arm, circling 5 times to the front, 5 times to the back. Release the arm first and let it fall back to your side, then move your head slowly back up into a upright position. Now go to the other side, lifting your left arm over your right ear and repeat.
Headaches after an auto accident are common and should be taken seriously. Not taking care of these 2 muscles with massage and stretching can cause a great deal of pain for years afterwards.
Jean Olsen is a licensed massage therapist (since 1995) and certified neuromuscular therapist. Her website- AchyHead offers unique, natural alternatives for headache sufferers. Apply her techniques and become "Headache Free...Naturally." "Helping people help themselves has always been my passion."
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