How Massage Therapy Helps Treat Back Pain
Digital composite of Highlighted spine of a man at physiotherapy
Living with chronic back pain is an obstacle in attaining quality of life that many suffer from.
Sixty-five million adults have experienced back pain in their lives, and 8% of all adults suffer
from chronic back pain. Yet, many who suffer fail to take advantage of massage therapy’s
healing benefits, which is an ancient practice that has continued to evolve over the past 5,000
years. Using touch as a form of healing is a custom rooted in ancient traditions of sacred
healing practices that help reduce inflammation and even help the body heal.
Typical Causes of Back Pain
Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability across the globe, and symptoms include
muscle aches, shooting pain, burning sensations, or stabbing pain. Pain can also start in one
area of the back and move down the leg or increase when bending, twisting, lifting, standing, or
walking. Back pain that develops without a specific cause can come on suddenly because of a
weakened core or muscle strain. Other more severe causes are damaged ligaments, ruptured
disks, arthritis, or osteoporosis.
People of all ages are susceptible to back pain, but the risk of injury does increase with age.
Those who experience chronic back pain should consult with a physician who will be able to
complete a thorough examination and fully assess any contributing factors in your lifestyle. Back
pain can be caused by a lack of exercise, obesity, or improper lifting. Other areas that are not
well-known causes are smoking, stress, certain types of cancer, and poor posture.
Upper and middle back pain can occur anywhere from the base of your neck to the bottom of
your ribcage. Pinched nerves are common in this area of the back, and pain can travel to the
arms, legs, and chest. Pain is usually caused by poor posture, overuse, or other injuries such as
arthritis or fractures in the vertebrae. Muscle tightness, stiffness, burning sensations, and sharp
pain are all common symptoms.
Lower back pain can be the result of aging, herniated discs, immobility, arthritis, strain, stress,
or illness. Symptoms of lower back pain are a wide range and can impact other parts of the
body. This part of the body can be easily injured by lifting, reaching, twisting, or bending
incorrectly.
Massage Techniques for Back Pain
The evolution of massage continues to grow as more and more scientific studies are being
conducted, and new findings founded in research is trickling down to schools. There are six
different types of massage that are commonly used:
Swedish massages use small single directional hand movements with deep pressure at
specific points.
Deep tissue techniques increase pressure throughout the massage, and weight stays stagnant
on problem areas by using steady pressure and resistance.
Myofascial release focuses on releasing tension in the fascia, which is a fibrous tissue that
sustains muscles. Therapists locate areas in the back that are stiff (versus elastic) and focus
manual pressure on specific areas.
Trigger point and myotherapy uses both pressure on trigger points and stretching
simultaneously to release tight areas. Sprays or oils that create a cooling effect are often used
during this process.
Shiatsu massage originated in Japan and is grounded in traditional medicine. This technique
uses fingers, thumbs, and the palm of the hand at various restorative pressure points.
Conclusion
Those who suffer from back pain should be aware that aches and pains can be effectively
addressed through this powerful form of holistic medicine. Increased mobility, improved blood
circulation, and a rise in endorphin levels are only a few of the many after-effects that massage
therapy produces. Aside from the pain management component, massage therapy helps to
calm the body and mind and promotes lymphatic drainage.
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Abigail Baker is a writer for AdvanceOnline, an online health and safety training provider.