Low back pain is a topic that comes up with many clients.  The problem with low back pain is how it can negatively affect us in everyday life.  Everyone’s experience with low back pain is different ranging from mild to chronic issues.  When you can negate or limit low back pain you increase your quality of life. For women, low back pain can flare up specifically during the third trimester and the puerperal period.  Massage therapy can be a complementary method to alleviate low back pain. How do we know Massage Therapy can woman just after childbirth with symptoms of low back pain?

In 2015 sixty women (all had given child to a child and experienced low back pain) volunteered to participate in a study involving massage therapy.  The volunteers receiving massage therapy experienced significant improvement in lower back pain discomfort compared to their peers receiving routine care (Lee & Ko 2015).  While massage therapy can support you in relieving lower back pain after childbirth, it is also important to find a therapist that fits your needs.  What steps can you take to find a massage therapist that works for you?

The first step is to understand the different types of techniques you can discuss with your massage therapist.  This is a major reason why doing your homework and finding the right massage therapist is important.  Massage therapists have different styles and backgrounds.  There have been times in my career where I have referred a client to another therapist because my skills were not a proper fit for them.  I believe one characteristic of a great therapist is when they are willing to lose a potential client to ensure the client receives the best care.  Take time to find a therapist that works for you.

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References

Lee, H., & Ko, Y. (2015). Back massage intervention for relieving lower back pain in puerperal women: A randomized control trial study. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 21, 32-37. doi:10.1111/ijn.12299