What Massage is Best for Back and Neck Pain Relief?

Discover which types of massages are best for relieving back and neck pain. Learn about Swedish massage, hot stone massage, shiatsu massage, lymphatic drainage massage and more.

What Massage is Best for Back and Neck Pain Relief?

When it comes to relieving back and neck pain, massage therapy can be a great option. Swedish massage is the most common type of massage in the United States, and it involves the use of long, gentle movements with oil or lotion. Hot stone massage is also beneficial for people who have muscle pain and tension or who simply want to relax. Shiatsu massage is particularly effective for low back pain, as it applies pressure to different parts of the body in a rhythmic sequence.

In many cases, massages can help relieve back pain in the short term, but are generally less effective in treating chronic and long-lasting back pain. You can expect some soreness for a few days after the massage, but a warm bath with Epsom salts can help with that. More research is needed to determine if neck massage is beneficial in reducing chronic neck pain and stiffness, and if the results can be maintained. Trigger points in the neck can cause migraine pain, or one in the back can cause pain that radiates down the leg and leads to sciatica.

Fortunately, few things feel better than a healing touch, and massage has benefits that go beyond releasing tense muscles. Since the best massage for low back pain doesn't stop at the base of the spine, don't neglect your neck. Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), is a type of gentle massage that stimulates the circulation of lymphatic fluids through the body. When you're ready to explore the best massage for low back pain relief, a qualified pain specialist can help.

You can usually choose what type of massage you want to receive, and you and your partner can get a different type of massage, depending on your preferences and the clinic's offerings. For example, some massage therapists use special oils or other scents for aromatherapy, which in some cases can improve relaxation or enjoyment. You can find massages for back pain near you by visiting the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) website. While massage is generally recognized as a safe, non-invasive treatment, there are some conditions for which massage is not recommended.

Meagan Furgerson
Meagan Furgerson

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