Many people at some point in their lives will experience low back pain; some people live with low back pain every day. It is a major cause for missed days at work. Fortunately therapeutic massage performed with an understanding of the roots of the pain, can treat and in some cases eliminate some of the most stubborn pain in the low back.

So, from where does low back pain arise? Certainly it can have its origins in the low back, an area generally defined by the lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum. Low back pain can stem also from the hamstrings, especially in people with limited flexibility. The hamstrings are attached the ischial tuberosities (“sit bones”) which are indirectly part of the low back. Pain can also be referred to the low back from the anterior (front) hip muscles and even the abdominal muscles. For example, the psoas (pronounced “so-as”) muscle is attached to the anterior of the lumbar spine and if it is chronically tight or holds trigger points, can pull the vertebrae forward, causing discomfort or pain. Weak abdominal muscles can put one at risk for low back pain.

The causes of the tight muscles or trigger points that eventually cause pain are numerous. Injury from a car accident, a slip on the ice or an overzealous workout can cause pain. Loss of flexibility from too little exercise or movement can affect the low back. Back surgery can leave you with relief of one problem, but can also cause new pain. Back pain can also have its foundation in a skeletal problem or may be a symptom of a disease. Remember to include your physician in the dialogue about your pain treatment and be sure your massage therapist is aware of diagnostic testing you have had and their results.

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