SITTING CAN BE HURTING YOUR LOW BACK

Research Indicates Massage Can Help Alleviate Low-Back Pain

Does this look or should I say, feel familiar? Low-back pain (LPB) is common and its prevalence in society is growing. The range varies globally between 22 to 65% of the population experiencing LBP.

"The results showed that massage yielded the most benefit in reducing LBP."

Reasons

 There was the time you lifted something heavy or perhaps you are belong to a large contingent of the workforce who have desk jobs where for hours at a time they are glued to the desk and screen. Two of the main reasons researched were heavy lifting and sitting. While studies do suggest other factors could contribute to this condition, I believe enough people reading this can relate the LBP they have experienced to either to one or both. 

1. Heavy Lifting

Occupations where heavy lifting is involved can contribute to LBP and interfere with daily activities such as getting out of a chair, getting in and out of a vehicle, putting their shoes on, walking, and going up and down stairs. 

2. Sitting

 

How many people are now working from home in less than ideal conditions? Sure, by now they have purchased a new chair or desk to make for a better ergonomic environment, but they are in the same place, sitting for hours at a time. Research indicates that there is a correlation between the time spent sitting and low-back back pain intensity. There are also implications that prolonged sitting can negatively impact the lower back including tightening of the lumbar spine (low-back region), increased intra-disc pressure, reduced strength of low-back muscles.

"Research indicates that there is a correlation between the time spent sitting and low-back back pain intensity."

Research Results

A recent study used complimentary/alternative methods of treatment for LBP including massage, yoga, spinal manipulation, and acupuncture to evaluate their effectiveness as a treatment for individuals suffering from low back pain. In the end, the results showed that massage yielded the most benefit in reducing LBP. The other methods used are certainly beneficial and I highly recommend whatever works best for each individual. Another important factor revealed during this research was that individuals were presented with opioids as a standard option for treatment, where any complimentary/alternative option was not promoted with consistency. This indicates the need for further education of how massage should be a strong consideration as part of a treatment plan. Patients should ask their primary provider about massage as an option to treat their LBP in an effort to reduce the need for prescription or over-the-counter pain-killers.

Take the time to get and walk around on breaks and stretch when possible. For low-back stretches, follow CG Massage Dynamics on Facebook at https://fb.watch/1vaZVWWy9M/

Chuck Geraci, LMT

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