Can lumbar disc herniation be treated with massage?
Mar 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Lumbar disc herniation is a severe type of lumbar disc protrusion, where the nucleus pulposus has completely entered the vertebral canal and is compressing the nerve. In such cases, massage therapy might worsen the condition, as it could increase pressure on the lumbar spine, thereby exacerbating the compression of the nerve by the nucleus pulposus. This may even lead to serious consequences such as nerve edema, degeneration, or necrosis.
Generally speaking, "lumbago" refers to lumbar disc herniation. Massage is usually not recommended for lumbar disc herniation. If experiencing discomfort, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Lumbar disc herniation is a severe type of lumbar disc protrusion, where the nucleus pulposus has already completely entered the vertebral canal and is compressing the nerves. In such circumstances, massage therapy may worsen the condition, as it might increase pressure on the lumbar spine, intensifying the compression of nerve tissues by the nucleus pulposus, potentially leading to serious consequences such as nerve edema, degeneration, or necrosis. Therefore, massage is generally not considered an appropriate treatment method for patients with lumbar disc herniation.
In daily life, one should pay attention to protecting the lower back, avoid traumatic injuries to the waist, reduce bending and twisting movements, and wear a lumbar support belt when necessary to protect the waist. Additionally, it is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and to maintain proper sitting and standing postures to reduce the burden on the lumbar spine.
