Can massage therapy address chronic back pain?
Written by
Natalie Hamilton
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Massage therapy provides comprehensive management of chronic back pain through physiological means. As your nervous system receives signals that block the pain pathways, your muscles can release tension patterns. This dual-action works on both the symptoms and the root cause. With regular sessions, you can achieve long-lasting relief without the need for medications.
Myofascial Release
- Reduces connective tissue restrictions around spinal muscles
- Improves mobility in restricted movement patterns
- Decreases pressure on nerves causing referred pain
Trigger Point Therapy
- Deactivates hyperirritable knots in back muscle tissues
- Interrupts pain-spasm-pain cycles maintaining discomfort
- Restores normal muscle function and blood flow
Neurological Modulation
- Activates pain gate mechanisms blocking discomfort signals
- Stimulates endorphin production for natural pain relief
- Resets muscle memory patterns contributing to tension
Provide back pain management through a variety of treatments with weekly sessions. Focus may be on an area of strain, such as the lower back, when you start. Reduce the frequency to biweekly visits when you see improvement. Ensure that you always include medical management of back pain in cases involving structural problems, herniated discs, and other related conditions.
Enhance results by combining massage with adjunctive methods. Perform prescribed stretching exercises in between sessions. Use heat therapy to prepare tissues before your appointments. Maintain adequate hydration to support the disposal of metabolic waste. This comprehensive approach leads to lasting pain relief.
Read the full article: 10 Key Benefits Massage Therapy Offers
