Massage for relieving sciatica pain is an effective method due to a combination of the following:
- Easing tense muscles
- Enhanced blood circulation
- reducing anxiety
- Creating a healthier healing environment
The Effects of Massages
Depending on the style of massage, a therapist may manipulate your muscles, joints, nerves, and/or connective tissue layers located just beneath the surface. Deep tissue massage, trigger point treatment, and neuromuscular therapy are a few examples of massage methods.
A massage can induce the following changes in the body, hence alleviating sciatica pain:
Relax and loosen muscles.
Tight trunk, core, and lower back muscles might put pressure on the sciatic nerve root(s) in the lower back. In addition to being twisted into tiny, painful nodules, taut muscles can cause trigger point discomfort. These muscles may be efficiently stretched, loosened, and elongated with a massage treatment, alleviating pain and restoring function in the lower back and legs.
Promote the circulation of regenerative nutrients.
Massage’s manual manipulation of soft tissues stimulates the skin’s blood vessels and deeper tissues. Increased blood, oxygen, and other nutrient circulation to the injured region facilitate healing.
Induce endorphins.
Certain pressure receptors in the brain, as are unique nerve fibres, are stimulated by massage. Activation of these pressure receptors reduces pain by triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s endogenous feel-good hormone.
Decrease anxiety.
Stimulation of pressure receptors reduces the stress hormone cortisol levels in the body. Decreased stress contributes to a sense of relaxation and release and a diminished perception of pain.
Some therapists may apply aromatic or essential oils to the client’s skin. Several of these essential oils may have a therapeutic impact on tissues and aid with pain relief. The aroma of these essential oils also contributes to an overall sense of relaxation. Before beginning the massage, advise your therapist if particular odours affect you.
Massages conducted by a competent expert are often safe. On rarer occasions, discomfort, soreness, stiffness, and injury to blood vessels or nerves may result from applying intense pressure.
Locating a qualified massage therapist
Massage therapists, physical therapists, sports medicine specialists, occupational therapists, and other licenced health practitioners often administer therapeutic massages. You can have a massage for relaxation in a spa or massage facility. Massages can also be provided independently.
Here are a few tips to assist you in selecting the appropriate massage style and practitioner for your sciatica pain:
Identify your objectives.
Determine your objectives before beginning your search for a massage therapist. For instance, if you need to alleviate stress in your lower back, you should seek out a professional skilled in specialised muscle-relaxation treatments, such as neuromuscular therapy. You might visit a nearby spa for a Swedish (deep tissue) massage if you just wish to increase your endorphin levels.
Consult your physician.
Your physician may be able to recommend a massage therapist in your region who possesses the necessary qualifications. If you have specific health concerns, such as high blood pressure or nerve difficulties (neuropathy) in your leg, a doctor can advise you on the safety of massage as a sciatica pain treatment. Consult with professional associations.
You can also consider an in-home massage for those who struggle with mobility or transportation. This way, the therapist will come to you.
