Pain that lasts more than three months is considered chronic.
Lower back pain can affect anyone, from the office worker who spends most of the day in front of the computer –to the police officer or laborer, working in the field; almost everyone has it at some point. The lower back, which starts below the ribcage, is called the lumbar region. Pain here can be intense and is one of the top causes of missed work.
A study on massage and back pain conducted at the Touch Research Institute at the University of
Miami (2001) found that: “Massage lessened lower back pain, depression and anxiety, and improved
sleep. The massage therapy group also showed improved range of motion and their serotonin and
dopamine levels were higher.” (International Journal of Neuroscience, 106, 131-145.)
At Sweet Earth Massage, aspects of neuromuscular therapy are incorporated; where, deeper strokes are used to lengthen, spread and then separate the muscles, connective tissue and fascia, releasing chronic tension. The muscle spasm should relax in response to the pressure applied by the massage therapist. Most muscle spasms require four massage treatments, usually over the course of six weeks, to achieve the best effect; which is based upon treatment and ongoing assessment –subsequent to initial evaluation.
If your job involves lifting, pulling, or anything that twists the spine, it may contribute to back pain.
However, sitting at a desk all day comes with risks of its own; it is the lower back that supports the upper body
–including any additional weight you carry.
Other reasons your low back may hurt include:
Being overweight
Inactive lifestyle
Studies suggest that any more than a day or two of bed rest can actually make the pain worse and may reduce muscle tone and flexibility.tudies suggest that any more than a day or two of bed rest can actually make the pain worse and may reduce muscle tone and flexibility.
"We found that massage helps people with back pain to function even after six months," "and better
function means they are more able to work, take care of themselves, and be active"–said trial leader
Daniel C. Cherkin, PhD, a senior investigator at Group Health Research Institute. Retrieved from
ScienceDaily (July 5, 2011) Massage Eases Low Back Pain in Randomized Controlled Trial.
[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/07/110704174603.htm]