Relieve Degenerative Disc Back Pain With Massage Chair Therapy

A degenerative disc problem in the spine can cause low back pain. Sometimes there are changes in the discs of what is called degenerative disc disease. This condition is estimated to affect up to 30% of people in the 30 to 50 age range. As the disc degenerates, the vertebrae come into closer contact and cause pain. To alleviate some of the pain associated with degenerative disc disease, massage chairs have been used with success.

Why does the pain occur? Let’s look at the structure of the spine. The spine is a vertical row of small round bones that are interconnected. The interconnection provides the ability for the spine to articulate or bend. Down the middle, these round bones or vertebrae run through the spinal cord.

The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that travels from the base of the brain to the rest of the body. The spinal column itself protects the spinal cord and gives the body flexibility and mobility. Between each of the vertebrae are soft discs. These soft discs are there to cushion movement between the bones so that the bones don’t rub directly against each other.

Certain activities such as wear and tear, aging, and misuse, such as smoking, can lead to degenerative changes in the spine. The intervertebral discs are a structure that is susceptible to degenerative changes. The challenge is early detection of these changes. Biochemical and structural changes can occur long before direct visible detection can be discerned through imaging.

Therefore, some deterioration may occur. Deterioration of the soft tissue that separates the vertebrae is reported to cause dull or sharp pain. Massage therapy has been used in conjunction with chiropractic adjustments to help reduce friction. This also helps reduce the pain associated between degenerated discs.

In general, the pain associated with degenerative disc disease is low back pain. The spine supports much of the body’s weight. As the activity is carried out, the physical stress is distributed throughout the spine. Normally, the lower back experiences more stress and fatigue. With disc degeneration there is a high incidence of inflammation.

Massage chair therapy has been used in two different ways to help relieve pain associated with degenerative disc disease. To relieve the pressure between the discs, a type of pressure or rolling massage is used. Kneading and tapping massages are used to relax the muscles in and around the spine.

Finger pressure massage puts pressure on each vertebra in the spine. This small movement helps stretch and lengthen the soft tissues and muscles that surround the disc. Rolling is done up and down the spine, disk by disk. This helps reduce pressure and uneven stress on the spine.

Kneading and tapping style massages are used to loosen the muscles and connective tissue around the spine and the back in general. Pressure tends to be concentrated in some areas of the spine with most activities. Loosening these muscles helps rebalance pressure and redistribute it better.

Although massage chair therapy has been successful in certain cases of degenerative disc disease, you should consult with your medical provider to find the appropriate treatments for your situation. Massage chair therapy is a convenient and practical alternative to using a massage therapist. Convenience and access to these important pain relief therapies are imperative.

Massage chairs provide an effective massage treatment to help reduce lower back pain. Many massage chairs have incorporated heat therapy, music, and even traction systems to provide a variety of therapies. All of these are available in the comfort of your home. Imagine that you could get the pain relief you need when you want it!