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Lower back pain has become a leading cause of job disability throughout the world. It is estimated that at least one in every ten people suffers from back pain problems which result in chronic pain.
According to a research published in the Journal Pain Medicine, “Massage provides lasting relief for the chronic back pain.”
Massage is a non-invasive, natural treat for back pain. Massage helps promote relaxation and offers psychological benefits which promote the release of ‘feel-good’ chemicals; they have been categorised helpful for people with both acute back problems and chronic back pain.
A study on massage and back pain conducted at the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami in 2001 revealed that: "Massage reduced lower back pain, depression and anxiety, and improved sleep. The massage therapy group also showed improved range of motion and their serotonin and dopamine levels were higher."
Massage is becoming a widely accepted treatment for back pain. Research has shown that a regular massage offers a number of health benefits and is now easier than ever with your own massage chair:
Increases blood circulation- Massage enhances blood circulation, supplying an increased supply of oxygenated blood to the body parts, which aids in the recovery of muscle soreness from physical activity.
Decreases muscle tension- Massage helps relax muscles, allowing for an improvement in flexibility, reduction in pain caused by tight muscles and improved sleep.
Endorphin release- Massage promotes the release of “feel good" chemicals in the brain. This mood enhancer can ease depression and anxiety, which helps reduce pain and promotes speedy recovery. This is particularly important for those who suffer from chronic back or neck problems.
A single-blind study published in 2016 in Complementary Therapies in Medicine concluded massage therapy to be effective for back pain. They examined the immediate effect of massage in patients with upper back pain. All participants reported upper back pain for at least three months before the study.
Researchers assigned 50 individuals to one of two groups, a 30-minute session of Massage or control. Those in the control group received sham microwave diathermy, which essentially consisted of a micro-wave therapy machine that was turned on next to participants but was not used. Individuals in the Massage group reported significantly greater reduction in muscle tension and upper back pain compared to those in the control group.”
Adding a regular massage to your healthcare regime can improve back pain that may be hindering your productivity at work and in everyday activities.
