April 27th, 2019 • Posted by Terry Lawvor Miller • Permalink
One of the most common issues I hear about is lower back pain. Luckily, there are numerous massage techniques that can help relieve it. Here are just 5.
1. Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a barebones, no frills massage that involves long strokes and some tapping. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to alleviate tension in the body, which is often responsible for lower back pain.
Since Swedish massage is one of the most basic massage techniques and usually involves a moderate pressure level, it’s often recommended for people who are receiving massage therapy for the first time.
2. Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage uses many of the same techniques as Swedish massage, but with a much deeper pressure level, as its name implies. It’s recommended primarily for people who experience severe or chronic back pain, since it penetrates deep into muscles.
Because of the pressure level, it’s normal for deep tissue can cause you minor discomfort durning and after your massage session. I tend to start relatively lightly, and apply deeper pressure as the massage session progresses. I will be more than happy to adjust my pressure level at your request, so don’t hesitate to communicate with me.
3. Hot Stone or Himalayan Salt Stone Massage
Both hot stone massage and Himalayan salt stone massage involve smooth, sterilized rocks that have been heated in special hygienic & environmentally friendly warmers instead of using water.
Similar to heating pads, hot stones are great for back pain for the following reason:
- They cause blood vessels to dilate, increasing the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients to the area
- They stimulate sensory receptors, which decrease pain transmissions to the brain
- They cause muscles and soft tissues to become more pliable and less stiff, which alleviates pain
4. Trigger Point Therapy
While other modalities tend to focus on the entire body, trigger point therapy prioritizes a specific problem area. If you tell me that you’ve been suffering from lower back pain, I will spend more time working on your lower back.
The aim of trigger point therapy is to break up muscle knots, or sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers.
5. Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy is a notorious cause of lower back pain, and yes! Massage therapy can help to relieve it (as long as you’ve received approval from your doctor).
I have a specially-designed massage table for pregnant women to lie down on safely and comfortably. I use light pressure to release tension in your lower back. Prenatal massage is also great for coping with other changes your body undergoes during pregnancy.
These massage techniques might not cure back pain forever, but they certainly make it easier to manage! Your massage should be as unique as you are. I will tailor your session to fit your exact needs. Every session may utilize various types of massage to provide the best experience possible.