Massage therapy can help with the healing and pain relief of a wide range of lower back issues. When the appropriate muscle is targeted, the pain can be directly controlled, providing faster and longer-lasting relief.
The quadratus lumborum and gluteus medius are two major lower back and hip stabilizing and supporting muscles. Changes in these muscles’ biomechanics as a result of strain or fatigue can cause low back pain, stiffness, and/or decreased mobility.
Read on to discover the massage techniques that can target and alleviate your lower back pain.
Massaging the Quadratus Lumborum
The quadratus lumborum is a multi-layered muscle in the lower back. This muscle controls your ability to bend backwards. Furthermore, the muscle aids in side bending.
This muscle is often prone to being fatigued by several daily activities, such as lifting that necessitates stooping over something, slouching in a chair, dishwashing, and walking on terrain with varied slopes.
With performing the continuous activities stated above, low back pain is then caused by a hypertonic (tight) quadratus lumborum. This entails experiencing a dull, constant ache, as well as stiffness.
The quadratus lumborum muscle can also develop painful trigger point nodules, entrap nerves in its fibres, or be directly injured. Your therapist must stretch and massage the muscle at the same time to effectively treat lower back pain.
Massaging the Gluteus Medius
The gluteus medius muscle is found in the buttocks. It’s an abductor muscle that allows you to lift your thigh and leg sideways, like when getting out of a car. It also keeps your hips level when standing on one leg (part of your gait cycle when walking). Hip and spine biomechanics are inextricably linked; hip muscle problems can result in lower back pain.
A variety of factors can contribute to gluteus medius muscle imbalance and/or weakness. Such may include running on soft surfaces (which is extremely taxing on the muscles), excessive equipment use for hip abduction exercises, sudden and strenuous physical activity, muscle degeneration, and sustained injuries from collision or hitting.
Gluteus medius muscle pain in the buttocks and lower back. It is possible for the pain to radiate into the thigh. Stiffness and fatigue are common symptoms that impair lower back movement and/or walking capacity.
Request that the quadratus lumborum and gluteus medius be targeted when receiving massage therapy for lower back pain. The lower back and hip muscles are linked for proper function. Fatigue, stress, and altered function are more likely to affect the entire group of muscles unless a specific muscle is directly injured.
Your massage therapist is probably familiar with the muscles that cause back pain. If you suspect that your pain is the result of muscle dysfunction, do not be afraid to request this type of massage.
Massage Therapy Has Several Advantages
- Massage therapy increases blood circulation, which aids in muscle recovery after exercise.
- Massage therapy expands one’s range of motion. Muscle relaxation also promotes sleep.
- Massage therapy has been shown to increase endorphin levels. Endorphins are serotonin-producing chemicals in the body that are extremely effective at managing chronic pain.
Conclusion
The majority of the people know massages for their aromatherapy association. Yes, massages are great for relaxation! However, they are also great for relieving aches, pains, and tensions from the body. After all, massages are also therapeutic for both the mind and the body. So if you’re feeling tightness and stress, know that a single massage session could do wonders for your overall health and daily performance!
Are you looking for massage therapy in bondi junction? Invigor Health offers specific services that cater to your needs. Book a session today and experience being pain-free!
