Most people see massage as a stress-relieving treat, a way to relax tensed muscles and soothe the body. However, did you know it can also be used an effective therapy to treat back pain? Read on to find out more.

Health benefits of massage

1.Improves blood circulation – Using their hands or special tools, a massage therapist will knead, rub and stroke the affected muscles. This works to increase blood flow to that particular area and means oxygen and nutrients can be delivered without hindrance. Improved circulation also helps eliminate excesses of acids or other waste products that have accumulated and may be contributing to pain. With improved circulation, sore muscles can heal faster.

2.Improves motion – As the muscles relax, they are restored to their original state, helping them to regain their range of motion.

3.Increases endorphin levels – Chronic back pain has often been linked to depression and anxiety. Massages stimulate the body to release endorphins (chemicals which make you feel good!). These endorphins can be helpful for managing chronic pain and feelings of depression at the same time.

Types of massage

Here are some of the most common types of massage you may want to find out more about:

Swedish Massage – This relaxes muscles with deep pressure and light stroking.
Deep Tissue Massage – May be good for chronic muscle tension as strokes are slower and more direct pressure and friction is applied.
Myofascial Release – Often applied to a muscle injury. This method is used to release tension in the fascia – the fibrous tissue that encases and supports muscles.
Trigger Point and Myotherapy – The therapist applies direct pressure on trigger points of pain to cause their release. Muscles are also stretched.
Shiatsu – An ancient oriental therapy which uses acupressure – finger pressure on specific parts of the body.

What you should know about massage therapy

-It is important that you speak to your physician before attempting to treat any back problems with massage. It’s essential to have the correct diagnosis made concerning your problem and also to seek professional advice on which forms of massage may be best for you.

-Massage therapy has been shown to have the best results when used in conjunction with other medical treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic or other physician-recommended care. Most good therapeutic massage practitioners will be happy to work in conjunction with your physician.

-Research trials have shown that classic Swedish massage, Thai massage and acupressure are effective for treating many complaints of lower back pain. Such pain has responded well to the pulling and stretching of limbs as practiced in Thai massage, to the deep and gentle manipulation in Swedish massage and to the focus on pressure points as carried out in acupressure. Better pain relief and mobility have been reported when these treatments are combined with exercises and stretching.

-Not all forms of massage have been scientifically proven to impact back pain. It’s important to speak to your physician and carry out good research before choosing the type you’d like.

-If you’re not happy to spend money on a massage practitioner, you could always ask a friend or partner to give you a gentle massage instead. For self-massages, there are lots of good hand-held devices on sale. Again, consult your physician before you choose to massage problem areas.

- To best treat back problems, take a holistic approach. Along with your treatment, learn good posture practices and invest in a good back support or car seat support to help strengthen and support weak back areas.

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