How to Massage the Back

Last Update: August 12, 2008

Video By: LIVESTRONG.COM

The back is an important area of the body to massage. Get expert tips and advice on massage and other treatments in this video.

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  • Rub the two spine muscles
  • Press down in outward motion
  • Rub spine to edge of scapula
  • Use forearms
  • Ask the person about pressure

About this Author

Malu works for Retreat Massage Therapy as a massage therapist. She is well versed in techniques that are particularly helpful for athletes.

Member Comments

0 down up

by MOTS on May 27, 2008 at 11:28 PM

Great video. I really like the tips in between the instruction.

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Video Transcript

MALU LUJAN: And now, we're going to talk about massaging the back and massaging those areas that we targeted that could use a little bit of attention. So I'm going to use some massage oil and we're going to do an effleurage down the length of the spine, and we're just rubbing the two muscles that run the length of the spine. They're called the electrospinning muscles, and we're going to down into the butt and you can come back up with that same move. And now, we're going to rub the shoulders. You bring your hands out, and I'm really pressing mostly with the ball of my hand. I'm using this part of my hand the most, and I'm just leaning my weight into his shoulders and applying pressure. Another technique that you can use is to rub from the spine to the edge of the scapula. That feels heavenly when your shoulders are sore. This is especially good for people who are swimmers, bikers, tennis players. When you do your effleurage, you can also bring your hands up and rub the neck. Now, we're going to go to the lower back, and I'm going to use my forearms and work on the lower back. You can lean both arms in and use--is that too much pressure, Chris?

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