Massage for Back Pain Relief

There are various forms of massage available that are able to help alleviate pain in the neck and back. A few of the more typically employed massage techniques include hot stone, aromatherapy, and Swedish massages, but there are many others equally as effective. There are no grounds for believing that any particular form of massage is more effective than another, so it's primarily a matter of personal preference and comfort when you get a massage for back pain relief. Every massage uses a specific methodology. The one that suits you best can only be discovered through experimentation. But regardless of which form you choose, be sure to choose a certified massage therapist for your back pain treatments.

With hot stone massage, the stones used are small, smooth and relatively flat. They are selected for their ability to retain heat, yet not crack. They are placed on the back for a period of time, where their heat penetrates the muscles and tissues and helps to loosen them.

Aromatherapy massage for back pain relief employs various essential oils, each of which handles a particular need. The massage therapist chooses a fragrance that is either relaxing, stimulating, stress reducing, or balancing, depending on the circumstances. Aromatherapy massage is a popular form of treatment for relieving stress.

In Swedish massage, the massage therapist uses a combination of circular motions, long, flowing strokes, and gentle kneading of the top layer of muscle, utilizing massage lotion or oil to facilitate the movement. This treatment is gentle, highly relaxing and very effective for back pain management.

Massage for back pain relief is usually performed using flowing, measured strokes applied by the entire surface of both hands. The massage therapist will press firmly upwards beginning at the lower back, continuing to the neck, and finishing with the shoulder area. For the smaller regions, deep pressure is employed utilizing both hands in circular movements. Pressure from the thumbs is applied on either side of the backbone, moving from the lower back to the neck. This should be performed three times on each side. Sometimes the arms are used as well.

For optimal benefits, massage for back pain relief must be performed in calm, heated and mellow surroundings, on a comfortable surface such as a massage table. A special massage oil should be applied so that resistance is minimized, but don’t apply too much oil because it will reduce the ability of the masseuse to apply pressure.

Throughout a massage for back pain relief, the lower back, shoulders and neck will be exposed while the patient lies face down. Pregnant women usually lie on their side. The body parts that aren't being worked on will be covered up with a warm blanket. The oil shouldn't be either excessively hot or cold. After the massage is commenced, the therapist's hands should always be in contact with the patient’s body in order to avoid any startling sensations. Only the muscles should be massaged, with no pressure being placed on the bones.