Herniated vertebral disc: Herniated discs are the most common causes of sciatic pain. When the disks between the vertebrae along the spine begin to slip or stick out, it can result in serious health problems. If you lift heavy objects, are overweight, sit for long periods of time, or are genetically pre-disposed, you are more likely to get a herniated vertebral disc. How does massage therapy help with sciatica pain? There are treatments you can take to help relieve sciatica pain, including medication, yoga, and physical therapy. But, massage therapy has also been proven to help. It offers a natural form of pain relief by loosening the tight muscles that compress the nerves. This therapy increases circulation, enhancing the healing process as well as releasing lactic acid. There are a few types of massage therapy that help with sciatica. Deep tissue massage This form of massage therapy reaches deep into the muscles, tendons, and other tissues to release tight and knotted muscles. Knots, adhesions, and scar tissue disrupt blood flow and constrict nerves. Deep tissue massage therapy loosens the muscles and other areas that are in pain and increases your range of motion. With this therapy, it is important to remember that pain may still be felt both during and after a session. Over time, it can heal sciatica
Although this method can be done both at home and by a professional, it is often best to leave it to the experts. Trigger point therapy Also known as neuromuscular massage, trigger point therapy focuses on certain points in the body that tend to hold tension and pain. These points are known to cause sciatica. By massaging trigger points and the areas around them, the pain can be significantly reduced. Which areas of the body are the best to work with? During your massage therapy (no matter the type) your therapist may focus on certain areas. These are called “perfect spots.” One of the best ones for sciatica pain relief is known as Perfect Spot Number 6. This spot is in the gluteus medius and minimus muscles, two muscles that overlap on the side of the hip and leg. Many people who get a massage are told they have sciatica, even when the pain is just coming from these muscles. Either way, massage in this area will feel great. Perfect Spot Number 12 is located on the gluteus maximus muscle, below the lowest portion of the lower back. When your massage therapist focuses on this area, you will feel relief from sciatica pain as well as sore muscles. Perfect Spot Number 13 isn’t known for creating surprising relief like Number 12, but it is also important. Many people feel pain in this area of the lower back along the sides of the spine. Massage therapy in Amarillo, TX If you have sciatic nerve pain or other issues, the professionals at Back to Basics Massage Studio in Amarillo can help. We provide services that can help reduce your pain and discomfort and bring you back to a healthier, happier lifestyle.