Massage Therapy & Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is caused by a narrowing of the spinal canal. The narrowing continues until the vertebrae are actually pressing down upon the spinal cord. Various symptoms can arise from spinal stenosis, including pain in the initial stages. If the stenosis continues, you'll feel tingling and numbness. There are various conventional therapies that help with the symptoms of stenosis, but some patients have found relief with massage.

Pain Relief

• Swedish massage, known for long strokes against the body, can be effective in reducing the pain of stenosis. For stenosis, pressure should be applied lightly and with caution, so as not to irritate joints that might be inflamed.

Blood Circulation

• Massage can be beneficial in stenosis by increasing the flow of blood. This provides the nutrition muscles need to function. When the muscles are fed their essential nutrients, it aids healing and can reduce pain felt from injuries or other ailments. Massage also helps reduce tension in the muscles, which is one of the symptoms of stenosis.

Spinal Osteoarthritis

• One of the conditions that causes the narrowing of the spinal canal is spinal osteoarthritis. Spinal osteoarthritis leads to the breakdown of cartilage between the bones. The joints between become inflamed and this contributes to the narrowing of the spinal canal. You'll also feel pain when friction between the bones starts to increase. Massage can help alleviate the symptoms of spinal osteoarthritis. By improving the blood circulation, the muscle tension around the joints decreases, reducing pain. Seek out a therapist that is specially trained in treating patients with osteoarthritis to avoid complications.

Endorphins

• Massage can release endorphins, brains chemicals that make you feel good. Not limited to stenosis therapy, endorphins reduce tension, anxiety and create a general good feeling throughout the body. Endorphin release can reduce pain and speed healing with some chronic back and neck disorders.