According to the American Chiropractic Association, more than 31 million Americans suffer from low back pain at any time. Non-surgical treatment can include cognitive behavior therapy, chiropractic therapy, exercise, acupuncture, yoga, application of heat or cold, pain medications and massage. The American College of Physicians recommend a medical exam to rule out serious pathological conditions and patient education in back care.
Benefits
In a survey of English-language studies available on Medline, Dr. Chou found moderate evidence supporting the efficacy of massage for low back pain. There is more evidence supporting the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, spinal manipulation and interdisciplinary rehabilitation. This doesn't mean that massage is not as effective, only that it is not as well researched. Another study reported in the International Journal of Neuroscience compared massage to relaxation treatments for chronic low back pain. The massage therapy group reported less pain, depression and anxiety, and improved sleep. They also demonstrated improved flexibility in the trunk and had higher serotonin and dopamine levels.
Considerations
Although massage is recommended for low back pain, not all kinds of massage are equal. There different levels of massage from the light touch of lymph drainage massage to the intense pressure of deep tissue massage. Massage is effective for musculoskeletal pain, but low back pain can indicate more serious conditions such as a ruptured disk, kidney disease, spinal fracture or other problems that need medical treatment. If you have low back pain and you're not sure of the cause, visit your doctor first for a comprehensive exam to rule out any of these conditions. If you know what caused your low back pain, such as overwork or driving for a long time, and the pain is not getting worse each day, massage is probably safe.
Function
Deep tissue massage focuses on connective tissue and muscles, and the goal is to produce beneficial changes in posture and movement as well as to reduce pain and increase flexibility. Deep tissue massage therapists need a detailed knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy, and they need to be aware of contraindications to avoid injuring clients. This work demands cooperation between the therapist and client, as the therapist needs feedback during the massage to avoid working too deeply too fast.
Techniques
Deep tissue massage therapists use their fingers, thumbs, fists, forearms and elbows to work through the layers of muscle and connective tissue, slowly stretching muscle and connective tissue fibers. The therapist will include joint movements and stretching exercise to enhance the effect of the massage.
Contraindications
You should not have deep tissue massage if you have had a recent injury or surgery, if you have ever had a blood clot, if you take blood thinners, if you have a fever or an infection or if you are pregnant. Deep tissue massage can dislodge implants such as a stent with serious consequences. If you have any of these conditions or any other concerns, consult your physician before having deep tissue massage.
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