Can Massage Make Herniated Discs worse?
Massage has been transformed from being a luxury indulgence to an inevitable treatment for many physical vulnerabilities.
For individuals dealing with a herniated disc, massage might seem like a natural choice to manage the discomfort and stiffness that often accompany this condition. However, the question arises: could massage actually worsen the problem?
Delve into the article to know all about it.
What Causes Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, happens when the soft, gel-like core of a spinal disc (nucleus pulposus) slips out through a tear or fracture in the stiffer outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This disease may irritate surrounding nerves which may result in discomfort, numbness, or weakening.
There are several elements that contribute to this illness. One of the key causes is age-related degeneration, in which spinal discs naturally lose water content over time, making them less flexible and more prone to rupture under minimal effort. Injury or trauma, such as a violent impact from a fall or accident, can potentially put too much pressure on the disc and cause it to herniate. Bending, twisting, and incorrect heavy lifting cause repetitive strain on the discs, which weakens them over time.
Additionally, genetics could also raise the risk of herniation. Obesity and poor posture can also contribute to this issue. They can put more strain on the spinal discs, increasing the likelihood of damage.
Another concern is smoking, which speeds up deterioration by lowering oxygen flow to the discs. Sometimes a rapid twist or movement can cause a herniated disc, particularly if the spine is already weakened.
What are the symptoms of herniated disc?
Individuals diagnosed with a herniated disc may experience severe pain in the lumbar spine or the cervical spine. The pain can be intense or mild, and it worsens when they bend, twist, or sit for an extended amount of time. When a herniated disc compresses a nerve, the pain may spread along that nerve and it may spread to the shoulders, arm and hands.
Herniated disc conditions may orchestrate sensations like tingling or numbness. A herniated disc in the lumbar spine might induce numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, whereas one in the cervical spine may cause similar feelings in the arms, hands, or fingers.
It can also debilitate the muscles. Individuals afflicted with this condition may find difficulties in lifting objects, holding onto things, or perform movements like walking or climbing stairs. Weakness may occur in one limb or more, depending on the nerve affected.
Individuals suffering from a herniated disc may find it difficult to stand, sit, or walk for prolonged durations. They may adopt a slightly slumped posture to relieve pain.
In severe situations, a herniated disc can compress the cauda equina (nerves at the base of the spinal cord), resulting in loss of bladder or bowel control, known as cauda equina syndrome. This necessitates prompt medical attention.
How can massage therapy help with a herniated disc?
Massage therapy can be an excellent supplemental treatment for a herniated disc, providing relief by reducing muscular tension and increasing spinal health. Massage therapy relaxes the surrounding muscles, which may become stiff as a defensive response to the injury. This strain frequently exacerbates pain by putting pressure on the spine and limiting blood flow to the affected area.
A skilled massage therapist can use targeted techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy to relieve tension in the muscles surrounding the spine. This relaxation boosts circulation, bringing vital nutrients and oxygen to the area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, massage therapy stimulates the production of endorphins—natural pain-relieving chemicals—helping to manage discomfort without the need for medication.
Regular sessions can also increase flexibility and range of motion, enabling the user to engage in physical therapy or activities necessary for long-term healing.
Can Massage Make a herniated disc worse?
Many people with a herniated disc may benefit from massage therapy, but if done incorrectly, it may make the situation worse.
Overly aggressive massage techniques, such as deep tissue massage or intense spinal manipulation, can strain the surrounding tissues and destabilise the spine, causing additional discomfort or injury. Excessive pressure applied directly to the herniated disc area may exacerbate nerve compression, increase inflammation, or worsen symptoms.
In addition to misaligning the vertebrae, some massages, such as those that involve aggressive twisting or stretching of the spine, can exacerbate the condition, which is especially problematic if the therapist is unfamiliar with the condition or has not received specialised training in treating herniated discs.
What Massage Types Complement Herniated Disc Conditions?
Swedish Massage:
Swedish massage is an effective therapeutic treatment for individuals dealing with herniated discs. The gentle techniques which are utilised in the sessions such as kneading, circular motions and gentle strokes promote efficient flow of blood and oxygen to the affected muscles and the areas surrounding them.
It also helps relieve pressure on nearby nerves by reducing muscle tension around the herniated disc and lowering stress levels, which can indirectly lessen pain perception.
Myofascial Release Therapy:
It is another potent therapy for herniated disc issues. It targets fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles. This technique involves mild stretching and continuous pressure to relieve tension and increase mobility.
Myofascial release helps relieve stiffness in the back and neck, which are frequently impacted by herniated discs, without exerting direct pressure on the damaged area.
What Factors determine whether massage is safe for a herniated disc?
The safety of massage therapy for a herniated disc is determined by various aspects, including the severity of the condition, the individual’s symptoms, and the sort of massage techniques utilised.
The severity and location of the herniation should be the prime factor when determining on a massage therapy. If the herniated disc is pushing heavily on a nerve, causing acute pain or neurological symptoms like loss of feeling or muscular weakness, massage may not be helpful until the acute phase passes. In such circumstances, visiting a healthcare professional, such as a physician or physical therapist, is critical for assessing the problem and determining whether massage therapy is appropriate.
Secondly, employment of certain techniques matters. Deep tissue or robust massage methods may exacerbate symptoms by applying excessive pressure to the affected area. Instead, gentle treatments such as Swedish massage, myofascial release, and neuromuscular therapy are typically considered safer. These techniques can help reduce muscle tension, increase blood flow, and relieve stress without exacerbating the disease.
Finally, personal concerns such as overall health, exercise level, and pain tolerance should be taken into account. Individuals with additional disorders, such as osteoporosis or other spinal issues, may need to exercise caution when receiving massage. Regular contact between the patient and the therapist is required to ensure that the treatment is pleasant and effective.
What Massage Types should be avoided for herniated disc conditions?
Massage therapy in general is a non-invasive treatment for herniated disc. However some techniques used in certain massage modalities may pose threats to the vulnerable condition.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Intense pressure and vigorous massage techniques may worsen the condition of a herniated disc. It can aggravate a herniated disc by putting too much pressure on the problem area, perhaps it can worsen nerve compression and cause inflammation or pain.
Trigger Points Therapy:
Trigger point therapy, which involves applying concentrated pressure to specific points of muscular tension, can be too powerful for people who have a herniated disc. If this procedure is not carefully tailored to the individual’s tolerance and condition, it may cause muscle spasms or increased discomfort.
What precautions should be taken when getting a massage for a herniated disc?
Before beginning massage therapy, always consult with your doctor, chiropractor, or physical therapist. They can evaluate the severity of the herniated disc, offer advice, and establish whether massage is a suitable treatment for your particular problem.
Direct, deep pressure on the affected area might aggravate the illness by causing more inflammation or nerve compression. Tell the therapist about your herniated disc and any regions that are sensitive or painful.
Choose gentle massage techniques like Swedish massage, or myofascial , which aim to relax muscles and improve circulation without putting strain on the spine.
Be outspoken about your degree of comfort during the massage. If any movement or pressure produces pain or discomfort, notify the therapist right away so they can change their technique.
Techniques involving twisting, stretching, or high pressure—such as deep tissue massage, sports massage, or Thai massage—should typically be avoided until explicitly advised and adjusted by a professional.
Stop the session if you feel sharp pain, tingling, or numbness during or after the massage. These could be indications of nerve irritation or worsening symptoms that require quick treatment.
After the massage, drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins and give your body time to rest and recover.
If you combine massage therapy with exercises or physical therapy, make sure not to overwork your back muscles. Consult with your healthcare practitioner to develop a balanced plan.
Conclusion
While massage treatment can help relieve the symptoms of a herniated disc, it should be used with caution and adapted to the individual’s condition. A trained therapist can use gentle techniques to relieve muscular tension, increase circulation, and encourage relaxation while avoiding aggravating the herniated disc. However, inappropriate techniques, excessive pressure, or massages conducted by unskilled practitioners may aggravate the problem, resulting in increased pain or nerve compression. To ensure safety, individuals should always consult with a healthcare practitioner before beginning massage therapy and include it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. When performed correctly, massage can supplement other therapies and aid in the gradual recovery of overall well-being and mobility.
