Sep
5
2023
Research confirms that some forms of massage help against low-back pain
But not all techniques live up to the promises made for them
Most people have experienced back pain – and many hope that massage will relieve it. But not all forms of massage have been scientifically proven to help against low back pain. That is what the German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) pointed out in information published on informedhealthonline.org today.
Back pain often affects the lower back and can be a big physical and psychological burden. “The cause of back pain is not always immediately clear,” explains Professor Peter Sawicki, the Institute’s Director. “But low back pain usually gets better on its own within a few weeks.” Back pain is only rarely caused by a more serious health problem.
Classic massage, Thai massage and acupressure could help against low back pain
If low back pain does not get better on its own, massage therapy could be a worthwhile option. “Research suggests that classic massage, Thai massage and acupressure can relieve low back pain that has lasted longer than several weeks,” says the Institute’s Director. In classic (Swedish) massage the affected area of skin and muscles are massaged, in Thai massage the limbs are pulled and stretched, and acupressure involves applying pressure to certain points on the body. “But relying on massage alone does not appear to be the best approach when it comes to back pain”, adds Sawicki. Research indicates that people could benefit more if they combine massages with exercises and stretching. In some trials this combination of approaches led to better pain relief and mobility compared to massage alone.
Not all massages are the same
“Not all forms of massage have been scientifically proven to help against chronic back pain though,” concludes Sawicki. “So it is worth finding out about the different techniques before deciding to have a certain type of massage.” An overview of the most common forms of massage is now available on http://informedhealthonline.org/low-back-pain-can-massage-help.630.en.html
The researchers pointed out that the main goal of massage therapy can be very different. For example, some therapists are aiming to help the person (and their muscles) relax, while others are more focused on stretching or working on the body in other ways. Although the trials studied various massage techniques, there were not enough comparisons of treatments to show which forms of massage might be the most worthwhile for people with different problems.
Many of the treatments had mixtures of several elements – like massage oils, stretching, and more than one type of massage technique. The researchers concluded that acupressure (by hand or using an instrument to apply the pressure) may be particularly effective, but more research is needed to be sure. Based on the small amount of research so far, it seems that Thai massage achieves similar results to classic massage techniques. However, foot reflexology massage does not appear to relieve back pain or improve mobility. The people in the trials did not have any serious adverse effects. Some reported having pain during or shortly after treatment. And some had an allergic reaction to a massage oil and got a rash.
Sep
5
2023
Learn advanced orthopedic tests & soft tissue treatments: nerve entrapment syndromes, muscle strains, ligament sprains, postural dysfunctions, joint pathologies, myofascial trigger point pain & other conditions!
Soft-tissue practitioners have been asking Whitney for a DVD on his Orthopedic Massage system for a long time. Well, we are happy to say they are finally within site. This DVD series demonstrates Lowe’s assessment and treatment methods for soft-tissue conditions. Designed to complement Lowe’s texts, these DVDs show exactly how to perform evaluation procedures that illuminate the nature of your client’s condition. They then offer you detailed demonstrations of the most effective treatment methods for both common and complex soft-tissue complaints.
Whitney applied his highly developed teaching skills to these DVDs, making them easy to follow and understand, and easy to navigate with detailed menus. Also, while Whitney has packed these DVDs full of information, they are filmed with efficiency and time considerations in mind so that practitioners may utilize their time effectively.
Use these great informational gems along with Whitney’s texts for additional visuals and active demonstration.
This DVD is now available from: http://www.terrarosa.com.au/dvd/orthopedic_massage_dvd.htm
Sep
5
2023
Simeon Niel-Asher, The Concise Book of Trigger Points, second ed., Lotus Publishing, Chichester, England, ISBN: 978-1-905367-12-2, 224 pages.
Anita Mehrez and Peter A. Mackereth
The Christie NHS Trust Foundation Trust, UK
As massage therapists, who also offer acupuncture, this book appeals on a number of accounts. First, the author has put together a very accessible book set out in 9 chapters; the first three setting out clearly the theory and physiology of trigger points (TPs). The six that then follow are organised around distinct muscle groups. Each 2 page spread features clear detailed colour illustrations by Amada Williams, depicting each major skeletal muscle, the zone of pain distribution and exercises to strengthen, including selfstretches. Second, the author skilfully explains each muscle’s origin, insertion, function and action, with an exploration of the physiological implications of TPs in each muscle, advice for the patient and treatment techniques.
Third, in ‘Putting it all together’ (Chapter 10) the author presents 4 new ‘Laws’ to determine the ‘how’ ‘why’ and ‘where’ of TP formation and advice on developing an effective TP therapy protocol. Finally a ‘manual and selfhelp’ section describes steps and sequences in tackling some of the most common painful conditions.
Overall, this is an excellent text that would be useful to students of massage/bodywork, physiotherapy, acupuncture, osteopathy as well as an excellent resource and reference for teachers. We both recommend this book highly…it certainly pressed some points for us.
the book is available from www.terrarosa.com.au
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2009, Page 48
