If you suffer from back pain, one way of relieving that pain is with massage therapy. Massage therapy helps eliminate back pain in a number of ways including:
- Relieving tension
- Enhancing circulation
- Loosening stiffness in the muscles
- Triggering the release of endorphins in the brain, which tend to act as pain relievers
- Stimulating the nervous system so that pain triggers are less prominent
A number of different massage methods may be useful in reducing back pain. The exact one you choose can depend on the source and cause of your pain, among other things.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massages are intended to release connective tissues in the back, thereby allowing for a greater range of motion. They can be effective at reducing pain caused by straining, but should be avoided by those who have ruptured discs.
Swedish Massage
A Swedish massage is performed on the entire body using massage oils to loosen up muscle knots and relieve tension. This type of massage lasts somewhat longer than a deep tissue massage, taking anywhere from 75 to 90 minutes in most cases. It can be effective for a number of back pain issues, but should not be given to pregnant women.
Hot Stone Massage
During a hot stone massage, a therapist will apply heated rocks to certain parts of your body in order to warm the muscles. Doing so allows for deeper massaging of tissues than what would be possible otherwise. This type of massage can be ideal for those who need to target a particular area of the back, but hot stones should not be placed on broken or sunburned skin.
When undergoing any of these massage techniques, it is not unusual for patients to feel some mild discomfort. Even so, a massage should not be painful, so those who do experience sharp pains during a session should speak up right away.
For many people, massage therapy makes it possible for them to obtain back pain relief. Those who would like to know more can talk with a physician in order to find out whether they could benefit from this type of treatment. When used correctly, massage therapy can be an excellent tool to use for those who suffer from chronic back pain that does not involve severe trauma.
For more information on how massage therapy can help with back pain, contact us.