Lower back pain is one of the most frequent and universal ailments that people can have. Saying you have lower back pain is like saying you have skin. There are some issues underlying this problem, and the solution lies in identifying the actual source of pain.
Massage Vs. Medication
Massage therapy is a better option for longer lasting healing for back pain, more effective than using painkillers or other medications. This is because, usually, lower back pain is caused by tension in the muscles, which can be corrected if the right muscles are targeted.
Certified massage therapists claim that locating and stimulating the back muscles can clear the lower back pain in the most effective manner. There are two main muscles that play a larger part in causing lower back pain. These are the quadratus lumborum (QL) and the gluteus medius. If either is strained or pulled, the pain can be abominable. A qualified massage therapist should spend quite some time on these two.
- Quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle massage: This procedure both stretches and massage this muscle at once.
- Gluteus medius massage: This, coupled with the massage above, loosens these muscles to increase blood circulation, therefore avoiding possible surgery. At least 20 minutes should be spent on this muscle after devoting time to the QL muscle.
- Deep Tissue Massage and Trigger Point Massage: Both focus on the source of the pain and relax the concerned muscles with extreme pressure. These are especially effective when the trigger point is in a spot other than the actual back pain, such as in the neck. Deep tissue massage is particularly efficient in relieving chronic back pain.
- Swedish Massage: An all-over massage that relaxes the whole body, resulting in general muscles being soothed, thus increasing blood flow and easing the pain all over, including the lower back.
Summing Up
While deciding on the best massage for lower back pain, the comfort level of the individual must be taken into account. It all depends on how much different bodies can handle. Also important is a professional medical evaluation to confirm if the pain is spinal, disc, or muscular before deciding on a specific treatment. If the pain is radiating down the legs, for example, a chiropractor visit might be in order. Of course, there is always the chance that the relapse of lower back pain can be prevented by adopting a better posture and stretching the core of the body.