How to Massage the Lower Back

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, methods of lumbar massage mainly include kneading, straight pushing, point pressing, grasping, and rolling pressure techniques. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. The patient assumes a prone position, and the massage practitioner rubs their hands together until warm. Alternatively, an appropriate amount of essential oil may be applied to the patient's lower back to provide lubrication. Subsequently, the warmed palms of the practitioner's hands, with emphasis on the heel of the palm, are placed at the sacrococcygeal region.

　　Under normal circumstances, common methods for waist massage mainly include kneading, straight pushing, point pressing, pinching, and rolling techniques. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Kneading Technique

　　The patient lies in a prone position. The massager warms the hands by rubbing them together and may apply an appropriate amount of essential oil to the patient's back for lubrication. Then, place the warmed palms at the sacrococcygeal region and knead upward along the direction of the lumbar vertebrae, extending toward both sides of the waist. This technique helps relax the waist muscles and relieve muscle tension.

　　2. Straight Pushing Technique

　　The patient lies in a prone position. The massager stands at the head side or slightly to the side of the patient and uses the heel of the palm to push along the lumbar spine from top to bottom. This technique promotes blood circulation in the lumbar muscles and helps reduce muscle fatigue and pain.

　　3. Point Pressing Technique

　　The patient lies in a prone position with the waist and back exposed. The massager first locates the acupoints on the area, such as Shenshu (BL23), Sanjiaoshu (BL22), and Dachangshu (BL25). Then, using the thumbs, gently press along both sides of the lumbar spine, applying pressure on each acupoint for approximately 5–10 seconds. This technique stimulates specific acupoints to promote meridian circulation and alleviate lower back pain.

　　4. Pinching Technique

　　The patient exposes the waist and back area while lying prone. The massager uses the thumbs and index fingers to grasp the skin along the midline of the spine, alternately pinching and releasing in a repetitive motion. This technique stimulates the muscles and nerves on both sides of the spine, helping to improve blood circulation and relieve muscle tension in the waist.

　　5. Rolling Technique

　　After the patient lies in a prone position, the massager can use tools such as a massage roller to roll up and down the waist area for massage. Alternatively, the patient can self-administer the massage using a foam roller by lying supine with the foam roller placed under the waist, supporting the body with hands and feet, and rolling the foam roller from bottom to top or top to bottom. This technique effectively relaxes large areas of the waist muscles, alleviating muscle fatigue and pain.

　　In daily life, one should avoid prolonged sitting, standing, or maintaining the same posture for extended periods. It is advisable to change postures regularly to reduce strain on the waist muscles.

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