Can spinal stenosis be treated with massage?

In general, whether patients with spinal stenosis can receive massage therapy depends on the specific condition—massage is not suitable for all cases, and improper massage may worsen nerve compression. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the patient has mild spinal stenosis without severe symptoms of nerve compression, such as persistent numbness in the lower back and legs or difficulty walking, and a physician has evaluated and confirmed good spinal stability, gentle massage may be performed under professional medical guidance. The goal of such massage is to relax the muscles of the lower back and relieve muscle tension. However, forceful techniques—such as aggressive manipulation, spinal rotation, or adjustment—must be avoided to prevent increased pressure within the spinal canal.

However, for patients with severe spinal stenosis, lumbar instability, or obvious spinal cord or nerve compression, massage could exacerbate disc herniation, cause nerve damage, or even lead to paralysis. Massage is strictly contraindicated in these cases.

Patients who are considering massage must first undergo imaging examinations to clearly understand their condition, then follow medical advice to determine an appropriate treatment plan. It is essential not to seek massage at unregulated facilities independently, as this may delay proper treatment or result in secondary injury.