How Can Massage Therapy Relieve Bulging Disc Pain?
A bulging disc is a common spinal condition that occurs when the outer layer of an intervertebral disc protrudes beyond its normal boundaries, causing pressure on the surrounding nerves and tissues. A bulging disc can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, neck, arms, or legs, depending on the location and severity of the bulge.
Many people wonder if massage therapy can help with a bulging disc and if it can actually push the disc back into its original position. Massage therapy is a popular and widely used modality that involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia, to boost health and wellbeing. Massage therapy can have various benefits, such as reducing stress, increasing blood circulation, relieving muscle tension, and enhancing mood.
But can massage therapy fix a bulging disc? This article will answer that question by exploring the benefits of massage therapy for disc disorders and providing practical, evidence-based tips on how to use massage therapy safely and effectively for a bulging disc.
Massage Therapy Can Help with Some Symptoms of a Bulging Disc
The truth is that massage therapy cannot push the disc back into place or cure the underlying condition, but it can provide relief from some of the symptoms of a bulging disc by:
- Reducing pain and inflammation – Massage therapy can reduce pain and inflammation by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and by decreasing the production of prostaglandins, which are inflammatory chemicals. Massage therapy can also reduce pain and inflammation by increasing blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can remove waste products and toxins from the affected area.
- Improving range of motion and mobility – Massage therapy can improve range of motion and mobility by relaxing and stretching the tight and contracted muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia that surround the spine and the affected nerve. Massage therapy can also improve range of motion and mobility by increasing the lubrication and elasticity of the joints, which can facilitate movement and prevent stiffness.
- Supporting the healing and recovery process – Massage therapy can support the healing and recovery process by enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues, which can promote tissue repair and regeneration. Massage therapy can also support recovery by reducing stress and anxiety, which can interfere with the immune system and the healing response.
Massage Therapy Cannot Push a Bulging Disc Back into Place
One of the myths surrounding massage therapy is that it can push a bulging disc back into place or cure the condition. This myth is based on false or misleading assumptions, such as:
- A bulging disc is caused by a muscle spasm or a misalignment of the spine – A bulging disc is not caused by either of these conditions. It is caused by a degeneration or a weakening of the disc due to aging, injury, or other factors. A muscle spasm or a misalignment of the spine can be a consequence or a complication of a bulging disc but not the cause.
- A bulging disc can be reversed by applying pressure or force to the disc – The disc is a complex and resilient structure that can withstand a lot of stress and strain. Applying pressure or force to the disc can actually worsen the condition, as it can increase the pressure on the nerve or cause further damage to the disc.
- A bulging disc can be cured or prevented by massage therapy alone – A bulging disc is a chronic and progressive condition that requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Massage therapy can be a useful adjunct to other treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, but it cannot replace them or guarantee a complete recovery.
It Is Essential to Use Massage Therapy Safely and Effectively
Massage therapy can be beneficial for a bulging disc, but it should be used with caution and care. Here are some tips on how to use massage therapy safely and effectively for a bulging disc:
- Consult with your doctor before starting massage therapy – Massage therapy may not be suitable or safe for you, especially if you have certain medical conditions or complications, such as infection, fracture, or nerve damage. Your doctor can also advise you on the type, frequency, duration, and intensity of massage therapy that is appropriate for your condition and goal.
- Choose a qualified and experienced massage therapist – Choose a therapist who has the knowledge and skills to perform massage therapy for a bulging disc. An experienced massage therapist can also customize the massage according to your needs and preferences and avoid any techniques or areas that may be harmful or contraindicated for your condition.
- Communicate with your massage therapist – Provide your therapist with accurate and relevant information about your condition, history, symptoms, and expectations. Give the therapist feedback and guidance during the massage, and let him or her know if you feel any pain, discomfort, or adverse effects. Follow the therapist’s instructions and recommendations after each session, such as drinking water, resting, or stretching.
Several Different Massage Techniques Can Provide Relief
Massage therapists use a variety of different techniques, customizing treatment to their patients’ health conditions and preferences. For a bulging disc, these techniques may be beneficial:
- Swedish massage – Known for its gentle and relaxing strokes, Swedish massage can reduce muscle tension and increase overall circulation. This can be particularly beneficial for an individual with a bulging disc, as it promotes a sense of relaxation and wellbeing.
- Deep tissue massage – For those seeking more targeted relief, deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. This technique can release chronic patterns of tension, potentially providing relief to muscles surrounding the affected disc.
- Myofascial release – Myofascial release involves applying sustained pressure to the connective tissue, or fascia, that surrounds muscles. This technique aims to alleviate pain and restore motion by releasing tension in the fascial system.
In the quest for relief from the challenges posed by a bulging disc, exploring alternative therapies like massage is a valid consideration. However, it is essential to approach these options with informed decision-making. Massage therapy should be used as a complementary and supportive modality in conjunction with other treatments prescribed by your doctor. Consultation with healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure a tailored and safe approach to managing the symptoms of a bulging disc.
If you have a bulging or herniated disc that is not responding to conservative treatment, a discectomy may be discussed and potentially recommended. Although this is generally a very successful back surgery procedure, having a large hole in the outer ring of the disc more than doubles the risk of needing another operation. A new treatment, Barricaid, is a bone-anchored device that closes this hole, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.
If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us today.
For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.