Massage Therapy for Back Pain

More than half of American adults seek medical treatment for back pain at some point in their lives. When traditional medicine doesn't relieve the pain, many people turn to alternative treatments. In fact, back pain accounts for 20 percent of massage therapy visits.

"Massage can be very beneficial for back pain," says Kathleen Clayton, L.M.T., a New York City-based massage therapist and a spokesperson for the American Massage Therapy Association. "It's up to the therapist to evaluate the person's problem and pain and determine the appropriate touch-level and technique to use. The treatment is always tailored very specifically to each individual's needs."

Proven results

Massage is a proven and cost-effective treatment for persistent back pain, according to a 2003 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The study was compiled from recent reviews of controlled trials evaluating acupuncture, massage therapy and spinal adjustments in relieving back pain. The researchers concluded massage therapy was the only one of the three to demonstrate a positive effect on the pain at the end of a 10-week treatment period and at the end of one year following treatment.

Understanding massage

The therapist uses his or her hands to perform various movements on the skin to massage muscles and ligaments. This promotes relaxation and a sense of well-being. The main techniques of massage involve stroking, kneading or pressing on the body.

These techniques can relieve muscle tension, spasms, aches, stiffness and pain. Other benefits include improved circulation, flexibility and range of motion.

As the therapist uses his or her hands or specialized tools to massage muscles, circulation is increased. Blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients, and helps muscles eliminate waste products, such as the lactic acid that may collect in muscles from spasms, causing pain.

Therapist questions

Before getting a massage for back pain, ask about the therapist's credentials, training and experience in treating back problems.