Massage Machines
Question:I have a bad case of scoliosis and stenosis and am in pretty constant back pain. I take pain killers, which help somewhat but, not as much as I like. As a practical matter, I'm housebound. I find that when my husband massages my back, just above my behind, which is the seat of the pain, I tend to feel better. He doesn't always hit the right place, and I'd like to do it myself. It seems to me that a simple massage machine, hand-held, would allow me to do the job. Do you have any suggestions?
- Sarah
Answer:
Sorry to hear about the chronic pain you are experiencing. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the space in the vertebrae that the spinal cord travels through. In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal, which contains and protects the spinal cord and nerve roots, narrows and pinches the spinal cord and nerves. The result is low back pain as well as pain in the legs. Stenosis may pinch the nerves that control muscle power and sensation in the legs. Due to this type of compression on the nerves, this will affect the muscles, and soft tissue. Thus, Massage Therapy is a great treatment to receive as it can relieve some of the pain, achiness and compensation that is occurring.
Ideally you should consult with your physician prior to starting any type of treatment with the sort of condition you have. Visiting a Therapeutic Massage Clinic or Rehabilitation clinic to receive a consultation would be something to consider. If you are in a great deal of pain and massages can help at times, however, it may be best to receive a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist before you spend a lot of money on a massage machine.
There are several different types of massage machines and the prices vary as well. The "Thumper" is one of the more common hand help machines on the market; it is used by many health care professionals and can be costly. To find suppliers for these devices, simply type "massage machines" into the Search box on Massage Therapy 101.
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