Massage is an obligatory component of any treatment course for a herniated disc of the lumbar spine. The sessions relieve muscle tension and pain, restore nutrition to the damaged disc, stimulate the immune system to actively fight the disease.
This is a very effective method of treating hernia. With proper therapy, including massage and remedial gymnastics, in 90% of cases, it is possible to stop degenerative processes and return the disc to its previous strength and elasticity. And at the stage of hernia development, surgery can be avoided in 70% of cases.
The procedure is performed with hands or special devices. The decision on the appointment of the course is made only by the doctor.
Single massage sessions do not have the desired effect - only regular courses give the result.
What types of massage are effective for lumbar hernia?
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Depending on individual sensitivity, the doctor may prescribe the following types of massage:
- segmental,
- point,
- Thai,
- Swedish,
- hydromassage.
General rules of massage for intervertebral hernia
Important!
It is highly undesirable to carry out the massage on your own - only a specialist should perform it. Illiterate and careless movements can cause irreparable harm to health.
Carrying out the procedure during an exacerbation in the presence of pain syndrome and signs of inflammation is strictly prohibited.
A distinctive feature of all types of massage effects for a hernia of the lumbar spine is a categorical prohibition on any forceful movements. Movements should be extremely gentle, in which damage to the diseased disc by bone segments is excluded.
In 70% of cases, a herniated disc of the lumbar spine is accompanied by a displacement of the nearest vertebrae. And one of the masseur's tasks is to put these vertebrae back in place without aggravating the current state of health.
When even insignificant pain the session ends immediately.
Technique for performing various types of massage
Before performing the main techniques, a preliminary preparation of the lower back is carried out: with light circular movements and stroking, the massage therapist warms up the skin and muscles in order to avoid pain during the main part of the procedure.
Classic massage
The masseur performs smooth stroking movements, alternating with moderate rubbing. After warming up and relaxing the muscles, the specialist applies elements of acupressure and circular rubbing. Then he makes movements aimed at stretching the vertebrae and reducing the pressure on the affected disc of the lumbar spine.
Vacuum
Vacuum massage is performed using ordinary glass or special pneumatic jars. Air is removed from the can (pneumatic is simply squeezed by hand, and tweezers with a burning cotton swab are introduced into the glass), and then quickly placed on the patient's body.
Due to the vacuum in the jar, the skin is absorbed into it. The absorbed skin level should not exceed 2 cm.
Then the masseur moves these banks in a special way along the lower back. The main movement is carried out along the spine without touching it. For easier glide, oil or a greasy cream is pre-applied to the skin.
The suction action promotes blood flow to the treated area of the body, thereby restoring nutrition in the damaged disc.
The formation of small bruises on the massaged area (hematomas) is a natural response of the body. They disappear on their own within a few days.
Honey
This type of procedure is carried out using natural honey, to which fir or palm oil is added.
Honey massage is performed in two stages:
Initially, the skin is warmed up with the movements of the usual classical massage.
Then a thin layer of honey is applied to the hernia area and rubbed in until it thickens. Further, the masseur tightly puts his palms on the back and abruptly tears them off.
In addition to strengthening muscle tissue and stimulating blood circulation, honey massage helps to restore weakened reflexes that arise when the nerve roots are compressed by a hernial protrusion. Therefore, it is prescribed at later stages of the development of the disease.
Video lessons
The technique of performing a classic massage for a herniated disc from massage therapist Svet Andrey, who talks about the effect of therapeutic massage and shows the main techniques.
This is a video about honey back massage, in which the author tells about the effect of the procedure, the technique of its implementation, preparatory and final procedures that enhance the effect of the massage.
Summary
With a herniated disc of the lumbar spine, doctors strongly recommend massage. The main conditions for its effectiveness are the implementation by a competent specialist after a thorough examination and outside the period of exacerbation.
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People who have an intervertebral hernia often ask the question, is it possible to use massage to treat it?
The answer to it can be simple - yes, but only it is necessary to understand the features in each individual case and determine whether there are any contraindications, since the hernia is not the same.
As a rule, the main points in massage for this pathology are as follows:
Techniques are used with light translational pushing movements, which are aimed at relaxing the paravertebral muscles of the back (muscles that are located along the spine);
- Avoid high-intensity manual movements that are aimed at twisting, rotating (turning), jerking and can further damage the unstable disc;
- It is imperative to consult a doctor, since with a large hernia or some of its types (for example, sequestered) massage is either completely contraindicated, or should be used with great care.
Why is massage therapy good for the patient?
Massage is gaining more and more recognition in the medical community as a reliable treatment for many types of back pain or as a additions to other treatments.
Research shows massage has several potential benefits in managing disc pain, including:
- Locally increases the circulation of blood flow, which brings the nutrition necessary for muscles and tissues, and also promotes the elimination of accumulated lactic acid, which causes muscle pain... This contributes to both muscle recovery after physical activity and an improvement in the nutrition of the intervertebral disc itself, which also suffers from spasmodic muscles.
- Reduces muscle tension to improve flexibility, reduce pain caused by muscle tension, and reduce pressure on the intervertebral disc.
- Increases the level of endorphins in the body - chemicals that make the body "feel good." It improves mood, depression and anxiety, which can further reduce pain and speed recovery.
Types of massage for herniated disc
There are many different types of massage and each one provides a unique experience for the patient.
Some styles focus on influencing superficial muscles while others - for treatment deep tissue... Some massage techniques manipulate the trigger points of the body, which is aimed at balancing the Qi energy (techniques from the countries of East Asia).
There are energetic and relaxing massage styles. One way or another, the use of massage will be most effective in combination with other conservative methods treatments such as physical therapy, gymnastics, and medication.
Most suitable for general relaxation Swedish massage techniques... These methods are characterized by long sliding and kneading movements.
Neuromuscular therapy (for example, Shiatsu massage) is considered the best method for targeting specific pain points or individual muscles. The essence of the method is that the masseur presses for a short time (10 - 30 seconds) with varying force at certain points. Massage techniques are performed with fingers, fists, or elbow. The procedure itself is relatively painful, but has a good effect. A typical regimen consists of four sessions over 6 weeks.
Sometimes a fairly effective method is massage with a special ice pack... Its effectiveness is achieved due to the following factors:
- Pain with between vertebral hernia necessarily accompanied by inflammation of the tissues surrounding the nerve fiber. The cold helps to reduce inflammation and reduce possible tissue swelling.
- As a result of cooling, a local anesthetic (analgesic) effect is observed.
- Cold slows down the conduction of nerve impulses in the affected area, which helps to reduce pain impulses.
In addition, there are many therapeutic aids available for home use, such as hand held massagers and massage cushions, that are designed to mimic some of the techniques used by massage therapists. A good option there could be a massage chair that typically mimics the actions of shiatsu or a Swedish technique.
Video tutorial on massage for hernia of the spine
Herniated disc massage is an optional therapy that many people use as part of a larger combination treatment program for neck or back pain. It is one of the oldest healing practices ever known and provides numerous benefits to patients with a variety of chronic health problems.
Unfortunately, since massage is a manipulation on the surface of the body, and a herniated disc is located deep in the tissues of the back, it is logical that its use cannot really cure a herniated disc. However, its use has been successful in reducing painful manifestations.
Article for young people
What kind of massage to do with a hernia of the spine? Treatments with honey, guaranteed to help with an illness. How to massage after surgery? Are there any contraindications and what to do with them? Special acupressure for the treatment of the disease.
Herniated discs are the most common cause of temporary disability and / or the acquisition of disability status by a patient. Affected by the disease are adults from 18-20 years old, experiencing constant physical exertion or having a genetic predisposition to the disease. Below we will answer the question "Is it possible to massage with a hernia of the spine?"
What's this?
A hernia of the spine is a lesion of the intervertebral disc, as a result of which the fibrous ring breaks through, and the nucleus comes out, forming a protrusion. It can occur in any department, but most often it appears in the lumbar, and the thoracic region is least susceptible to ailment.
Intervertebral hernia is the result of rupture of the ring with the outflow of a jelly-like fluid of the nucleus pulposus
The disease is accompanied by pain inflammatory process, difficulty of movement. With the postponement of therapy, complications develop - pinching of the hernia, which are treated with an urgent operation.
Procedure
Is it possible to massage with a vertebral (and intervertebral hernia)? Yes, but with some reservations, which are described in detail in the section "contraindications". Massage for a hernia of the spine has a good supportive and preventive effect, prevents the progression of the disease, the development of complications. It is prescribed by the attending physician (therapist, orthopedist, chiropractor), after passing the examination, identifying possible contraindications... For the procedure, a medical massage therapist or doctor is invited.
Important! In no case do not go to massage therapy with unverified specialists with unknown qualifications. They may not have enough knowledge to help you
The massage stimulates blood circulation in the affected disc area, as well as relaxes and stretches the muscles
What massage to do with a hernia of the spine? Almost all types of techniques are used for the treatment of an ailment; let us consider a few of them in more detail.
Thai
Is it possible to do Thai massage for a hernia of the spine? Yes, but only after consulting your doctor. The procedure is complex therapy, which includes, in addition to tactile influences, stretching, elements of yoga, reflexology. During the session, to moisturize the skin, are used essential oils, herbal infusions, which have a relaxing effect on the psyche, increase the patient's immune system.
Due to the dynamism of the procedure and the activity that is required from the patient during the procedure, the Thai technique is not suitable for everyone.
Canned or vacuum
Cupping massage for a hernia of the spine is not used in all. The technique consists in placing small jars on the patient's back, which, by sucking, form a vacuum for honey with skin and glass, pull soft tissues inside themselves. During the session, the banks move along the back, with the help of which a massaging effect is achieved, the blood accelerates, the metabolism improves, and muscle clamps are worked out.
Vacuum massage for a hernia of the spine is done no more than 3-4 times a week, it is recommended to alternate it with classical procedures.
Point
The technique appeared in the Far East. It consists in a point effect on pain points, due to which they are worked out, and the pain syndrome after the syndrome after the procedure is significantly reduced. During the procedure, pressure is performed on areas of the back, varying in duration and degree of intensity. Before the session, the patient and the doctor communicate in order to develop a unique session scheme suitable for a specific organism.
When tactile, the doctor uses not only fingers, but fists and elbows to increase / decrease the area of pressure.
With honey
Honey massage for herniated discs is effective due to its medicinal properties. After a small warm-up effect, a thin layer of honey is applied to the patient's back. Due to the sticky consistency of the lubricant, the back technique is performed using patting of varying intensity. Thus, blood flow to the skin is caused, the components of honey penetrate through the tissues and, together with the bloodstream, reach the affected area. Honey has anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating effects.
This technique has a number of contraindications of its own: formations in the body associated with oncology, diabetes mellitus, infectious dermatitis, tuberculosis, allergic reactions to bee products.
After operation
A full-fledged massage after removal of an intervertebral hernia is carried out no earlier than the damaged tissue will heal. Before that, you can carry out sessions with light stroking, pressing on the back. After the tissue has healed, classical massage is started, however, the technique for patients after surgery will be different. All movements of the doctor are soft, smooth, careful. In no case, during sessions during the rehabilitation period, should there be pain or other unpleasant sensations.
Classic massage after surgery will help the body recover faster
After a month of rehabilitation, it is permissible to use any other technique of tactile influence.
Contraindications
- Severe pain syndrome.
- Inflammation, infection in the body.
- Unhealed wounds on the back, neoplasms, moles.
- Pregnancy.
- Increased blood thinning.
- Exacerbation of the disease.
- Diseases, pathologies, displacement of internal organs.
The conditions listed above are not 100% contraindications, they should be discussed with your doctor.
Important! Be attentive to yourself and tell the doctor all the symptoms and diseases that you know about your body. This is important for the selection of a technique that will not harm your health.
Summarize
Massage is an important part of supportive, rehabilitative therapy. It should be performed only by a specialist with the appropriate education, after the procedure has been prescribed by a doctor. Several techniques have been reviewed, the videos attached in the sections will help you better understand their differences. Share your experience with us in the comments, ask your questions.
Spine diseases are very common. They can be caused by bad habits, an immobile lifestyle and strong stress on the spine itself. It is also very common to develop hernias in various parts of the spine.
It is possible to get rid of an intervertebral hernia with the help of complex treatment, which consists of taking medications, conducting manual therapy and physiotherapy, massage and physiotherapy exercises, as well as surgical intervention.
Massage is considered an additional treatment during the recovery period after surgery. Whether it is possible to massage with a hernia of the spine, many patients are interested.
The positive effect of massage sessions is noted, as there is an increase in blood circulation and the nutrition of nearby tissues increases. By relaxing the muscles, the feeling of stiffness is removed, the sensation of pain is eliminated, and the posture is leveled.
Back massage with a hernia of the spine should be carried out by a competent specialist who will not harm your health. Any type of exposure should be discussed with a doctor.
A massage performed by a professional reduces the excitability of nerve endings and prevents the development of muscle atrophy. Massage sessions are allowed during the period of remission of the disease. During the procedure, the patient should lie comfortably on his back. If during the course he experiences severe pain, the session must be stopped.
Only a specialist can individually select the type of massage and the duration of the course.
With hernia of the spine, massage can be:
- General (classic);
- Medicinal;
- Massage in the affected area of the back (segmental);
- Canned;
- Point;
- Swedish;
- Medov;
- Thai.
When choosing any type of massage, do not forget about the presence of contraindications. Massage with intervertebral hernia should be done carefully. Like any method of treatment, it has its own contraindications:
If there is at least one restriction, you should refuse to carry out the massage at least for a while. Do not hide contraindications from a specialist, as this can be harmful to health.
It is necessary that the massage session be carried out in a sparing form, without the use of forceful techniques that can provoke a rupture of the intervertebral disc, after which muscle spasm will increase and nerve edema will occur. This condition is dangerous because urgent surgical intervention may be required.
Classic massage
Classic massage is used during the rehabilitation of the patient after surgery. It is used to heal a hernia located in the area cervical... During the patient's recovery period, the following massage methods can be carried out: stroking, rubbing and vibration. The main thing is that the patient does not feel unpleasant sensations on himself during the procedure and is in a state of relaxation.
The therapeutic type is carried out with pain in the back. The course can be on average 6-18 sessions.
Segmental massage
When performing segmental massage, there is an effect on the root exit zones spinal cord from the spine itself. This type has a more gentle effect on the body due to its implementation on a separate part of the body. Its implementation does not require the use of various lubricants. Segmental massage is highly effective.
During the process itself, the following methods are used: stroking, felting, rubbing, vibration and kneading, but these can vary depending on the sensitivity of the patient.
Vacuum massage (cans)
Vacuum massage is popular among other types of massage, it is also called vacuum therapy. For its implementation, medical banks are used, which are clearly moved along the massage lines. With the help of cans, it is possible to massage both superficial and deep tissues.
Thanks to this vacuum therapy, lymphatic drainage is accelerated, and blood circulation in the tissues is improved. Vacuum massage for hernias of the spine is desirable to carry out every other day and alternate with a therapeutic form. On average, a massage course is 7-14 procedures.
At the end of the vacuum massage, stroking is performed in the direction of the lymphatic and venous pathways. Such massage cannot be performed during pregnancy and lactation, with oncology, thrombophlebitis, infections and blood diseases.
Manual therapy
Thanks to manual therapy, it is possible to achieve the elimination of a hernia in the lumbar region. This method is the most effective. In the course of this type, a deep effect on the vertebrae occurs. A session conducted by a chiropractor has many contraindications. The course is 10 sessions. After manual therapy, the risk of disease recurrence is significantly reduced.
Acupressure and Thai massage
When performing acupressure and Thai type of massage, biologically active points are massaged. Pain during acupressure may be present, but this method has a high level of effectiveness. There are two types of massage:
- Relaxing. This massage is aimed at relieving tension and pain in the muscles. This massage for a spinal hernia in lumbar considered very effective.
- Stimulating. Helps improve blood circulation and lymph drainage.
What kind of massage can be done will be determined by an experienced specialist. And as soon as the permitted massage is performed, the patient will appreciate the relief and a speedy recovery. Only the implementation of such a responsible technique should be entrusted to a trusted specialist.
Honey massage
When carrying out this method, honey is applied to the patient's skin with a thin layer, which can be combined with various oils and substances (fir, palm, mummy).
During the session, due to the detachment and sticking of hands, skin receptors are irritated. This kind has a reflexological property, which is used for a hernia that has a neurological manifestation. During the massage, stroking is performed.
To carry out the honey method, you need to use only natural honey, which contains many biologically active substances, trace elements and vitamins.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a modern medical technique. This procedure is now widely used. Acupuncture simultaneously affects the human nervous and muscular system, normalizes blood circulation and metabolism.
There is a large number of active points. When activated, it is possible to stop the development of the disease. But not all experts share the opinion about this method as effective. Treatment of a hernia of the spine with acupuncture can achieve results when the doctor is competent, and the patient is open to this type of medicine.
Hydromassage
Hydromassage is a treatment with water waves. Hydromassage can relax the entire body, including tense back muscles. When the muscles are relaxed, the pressure on the hernia area decreases. It also improves blood circulation, restores the functionality of the joints and their elasticity, activates the venous system. Many patients note a positive result - nervousness and body fatigue are relieved, and efficiency is increased.
The procedure should be considered exclusively as an auxiliary one, along with compulsory physiotherapy exercises and admission. drugs aimed at restoring cartilage tissue, supporting the body and dehydrating the intervertebral disc. Self-implementation of hydromassage should not be a reason to postpone a visit to a doctor.
It's no secret that spinal diseases are a fairly common problem. At the same time, a herniated disc is one of the leaders in terms of possible unpleasant consequences for the body. And this is not to mention the serious pain syndromes that "fetter" a person, practically depriving him of mobility. However, in other articles we have figured out in detail what such a disease is, what it is, etc. In this article, we would like to dwell on such a question as massage for a hernia of the spine.
How is spinal hernia treated?
Let's see what the process of treating a hernia of the spine is. First of all, the "acute" period of the disease stands out. It is at this time that a person is tormented, which may be accompanied by various neurological symptoms. Treatment during this period is almost always the same - the patient is prescribed painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, a number of physiotherapy procedures are also possible. In most cases, this is enough to relieve pain, eliminate inflammation and edema, which are the cause of pain. It should be noted that the "acute" period is not too long with the right treatment.
But the hardest part starts next. Human psychology works according to the principle "it doesn't hurt, so the problem has disappeared." In fact, this is not at all the case, and it is now that the real treatment begins. And the main tasks in this case are to prevent relapses and progression of the disease. What is being done for this?
Treatment after the "acute period" - we restore the back
There is nothing complicated in this treatment. The main task in this situation is to restore the normal functioning of the ligamentous apparatus and the muscular corset of the back. In this case, the body itself will prevent the development of the disease. For this, two main methods of treatment are used - and massage. It should be understood that these are not interchangeable, but complementary methods. And if exercise therapy is considered in sufficient detail in other articles, then the knowledge of what the massage technique should be for a hernia of the spine and whether it can be used at all for such a disease is rather superficial.
Not a panacea, but an effective method of treatment
In general, massage is used during rehabilitation treatment. For example, if the diagnosis is "", massage can improve blood circulation in the affected area, relax and stretch spasmodic muscles. At the same time, the pain syndrome decreases, the excitability of the nerve endings decreases, and muscle atrophy is prevented. In this case, massage is usually performed during the absence of pain syndrome or when it is weak.
The massage technique for a hernia of the spine can be different. It is the doctor who determines which type of massage should be used in this case - classic, point, segmental-reflex, etc. the choice usually depends on the clinical manifestations of the disease, on how pronounced they are, whether concomitant diseases are present, what are the individual characteristics of the patient, etc.
We also note that in the treatment of various clinical manifestations, almost all conventional massage techniques can be used - rubbing, stroking, vibration, kneading. At the same time, the massage therapist must ensure that when performing the massage, the patient does not experience painful sensations, since a correctly performed massage, in principle, cannot lead to pain.
Quite often, acupressure is also used for a hernia of the spine, and other types of massage. After the session, the patient should have a feeling of comfort, relaxation and warmth in the massaged area, the mobility of the joints and general well-being should increase.
In this case, the duration of the session can be different, it is also determined by the attending physician and can range from several minutes to an hour. The number of procedures and the frequency of their implementation are determined based on the condition of the patient, his age and the area that is being massaged. Usually one course of treatment is up to 20 procedures, and breaks between courses can be up to 3 months.
Finally, I would like to note that the use of massage without the simultaneous use of other methods of treatment will not bring a sustainable positive result. That is why, in the treatment of the spine, only A complex approach, which allows to lead to regression of the disease.
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