Massage therapy can be useful for many different types of ailments, in particular chronic low back pain. Gia Miller discusses the benefits of massage in her article titled, “Healing Hands: Massage May Ease Chronic Back Pain”. Guidelines suggest that massage therapy should be used prior to opiod use for lower back pain but many providers are not necessarily following these suggestions. Those that are suffering from low back pain typically experience symptoms short-term, but they can become chronic (lasting longer than three months) for about 15 percent of sufferers. It can be challenging to find a treatment that works for those with low back pain and oftentimes providers will prescribe painkillers but those can become addictive. The U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease suggest that exercise, steroid injections, behavioral changes, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture and surgery can also be viable options for relieving pain. It is always best to speak with your provider before starting any type of treatment.
A study was completed using over 100 participants to meet with a massage therapist to develop a treatment plan for their low back pain. Participants received 10 massages from therapists. Subjects reported less pain after a 12 week period and continued to have reduced pain after a three month period. In general, those that were older than 50 years of age reported better results than those that were younger. Massage in particular is helpful for soft tissue injuries, which include muscles and ligaments.
Subjects of the study received massages free of charge but typically massages can be expensive. Insurance companies typically do not cover massages and this may explain why opioids are prescribed more by providers. Niki Munk, who is a licensed massage therapist, stated that massage is most effective when it is done regularly to reduce pain. Once back pain has been reduced, massages can be done every month or every other month to maintain functionality. She suggests finding a therapist that patients can develop a therapeutic relationship with over each visit and one that will develop an effective treatment plan. To find out more ways to keep your body healthy, please visit our website at www.oxborochiro.com.
Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=202892
