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Writer's pictureAyshia Gardner

The Role of Massage Therapy in Alleviating Back Pain

Back Massage

Back pain, particularly lower back pain, is very common. It's not just a physical ailment; and although it usually improves within a few weeks, it can sometimes last longer or keep coming back. It can also affect your overall quality of life, making everyday tasks difficult.


Back pain can have many causes and they're not always obvious. A common cause of back pain is usually from an injury like a pulled muscle. Sometimes, medical conditions like a slipped disc, sciatica (a trapped nerve) or ankylosing spondylitis can cause back pain. Very rarely, back pain can be a sign of a serious problem such as a broken bone, cancer or an infection.


However, there are things you can do to help ease the pain such as massage therapy is a proven method for alleviating back pain, offering both immediate relief and long-term benefits.


How Massage Therapy Helps

  1. Reduces Muscle Tension: Massage therapy helps to relax tight muscles, which are often the source of back pain. This can reduce tension and relieve discomfort.

  2. Improves Circulation: Increased blood flow from massage promotes healing in damaged muscles and tissues.

  3. Promotes Relaxation: By reducing stress and anxiety, massage helps the body to enter a state of relaxation, which is crucial for healing.

  4. Enhances Flexibility: Regular massage can improve flexibility and range of motion, reducing the risk of future injuries.

  5. Alleviates Inflammation: Techniques like deep tissue massage can reduce inflammation that often accompanies back pain.


Lady stretching

Managing Back Pain at Home

  • Regular Stretching: Incorporate stretches that target the back muscles into your daily routine.

  • Stay Active: Gentle activities like walking or swimming can help keep your back muscles strong and flexible.

  • Proper Sleep Posture: Ensure your mattress and pillows support your spine properly while sleeping.

  • Mindful Movement: Be cautious with activities that might strain your back, such as heavy lifting. Always use proper form.


What are the 'red flag' warning symptoms?

Due to the design of our spines, the neck and lower back (lumbar spine) are more prone to symptomatic issues. Should you experience pain in your thoracic spine, located behind the ribcage, it warrants immediate medical evaluation.


The discomfort from a prolapsed disc, also known as a 'slipped disc,' can be intensely severe, particularly if it compresses or irritates a nerve emanating from the spinal cord. However, cauda equina syndrome, a rare but potentially grave condition where the nerves at the base of the spinal cord are compressed, constitutes a medical emergency.


Symptoms to look out for include:

  • Numbness around your bottom

  • Sudden weakness in one or both legs

  • Loss of control of your bladder or bowel or loss of sensation of your bladder


If you have a history of cancer, are taking steroid tablets, suffer from osteoporosis (bone thinning), or have experienced significant trauma to your back, it's crucial not to delay consulting your doctor.


Additionally, if rest does not alleviate the pain and it continues to worsen, seeking medical assistance is imperative.


massage therapy

Recommended Massage Courses at S.spa London

S.spa London offers specialised massage courses designed to address back pain effectively:

  • Back Pain Relief Programme: A series of targeted massage sessions focusing on the specific areas of your back that are causing pain. This programme is designed to reduce tension, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

  • Deep Tissue Massage Course: This course is ideal for those with chronic back pain. It includes multiple sessions that target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

  • Holistic Massage Experience: A comprehensive approach that combines various massage techniques with wellness advice to manage back pain holistically.


Whether you’re dealing with acute or chronic back pain, these massage courses at S.spa London are tailored to provide relief and improve your quality of life. Book today to learn more.

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