A pinched nerve is an issue that can cause pain, numbness, or weakness, often disrupting daily life. Swedish massage, a gentle and relaxing massage technique, is sometimes used to help relieve nerve pressure and improve circulation in people experiencing this issue.
Here’s a look at how Swedish massage for pinched nerves can help individuals and what you need to consider before opting for one.
What is a pinched nerve, and what causes it?
A pinched nerve happens when a nerve is placed under too much pressure. Such pressure can arise from the surrounding vines, muscles, tendons, cartilage, etc. Pinched nerves can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area.
Some of the leading causes of a pinched nerve can include:
- A herniated disc occurs when a disc in your spine presses on a nerve.
- An injury or sudden trauma can damage tissues and compress nearby nerves.
- The same, repetitive movement can also lead to stress on the nerves.
- Inflammation in the joints can narrow nerve pathways and lead to pinched nerves.
- Any sort of weight gain could also add pressure on nerves.
How does Swedish massage help relieve a pinched nerve?
Swedish massage for pinched nerves can help one find relief from the issue to a great extent. Here is a look at how it does this.
- Helps Relax Tight Muscles: The gentle strokes used in a Swedish massage help relax muscles. Since tight muscles can press on nerves, loosening them eases this pressure.
- Improves Blood Circulation: The massage also helps improve blood circulation. This can help reduce inflammation around the nerve, lowering pain and speeding up healing.
- Reduces Stress and Pain: Swedish massage is also known to reduce the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone in the body. The body also releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins during the massage, making the pain feel less intense.
- Increases Range of Motion: With less stiffness in the muscles and joints, Swedish massage helps increase the range of motion. This further prevents the nerve from getting pinched again.
Is there scientific evidence supporting Swedish massage for nerve pain?
Yes, there is some scientific evidence that supports the use of Swedish massage for pinched nerves.
Improved Blood Flow and Relaxation
Since Swedish massage uses long, gentle strokes, it helps improve blood flow. With better circulation comes reduced inflammation around the nerve root, easing the pressure and lessening pain. This is according to an article by Harvard Health Publishing.
Temporary Pain Relief
An article by Medical News Today stated that massage and physical therapy can both help reduce physical pain and stress on the nerves.
The relaxing massage movement can ease muscle tension and help you feel more relaxed, reducing the perception of pain.
Not a Cure for Pinched Nerves
This scientific evidence also points out how important it is to remember that massage is not a cure for pinched nerves. If the nerve is severely compressed, medical treatment or physical therapy may be needed.
How does Swedish massage compare to other therapies for pinched nerves?
The technique used in Swedish massage for pinched nerves is different from most other therapies. Here is a look at how these compare.
Is deep tissue massage better than Swedish massage for nerve pain?
For nerve pain, choosing between Swedish and deep tissue massage will depend on the severity and nature of your condition.
Deep Tissue Massage is often more effective for chronic nerve pain or conditions like sciatica. The massage applies firm pressure to target deeper muscle layers and connective tissues. This helps in releasing tension and improves blood flow, potentially alleviating nerve compression and reducing pain.
Swedish Massage, on the other hand, uses lighter pressure and is better suited for mild to moderate pain. It works best for relaxation and can help relieve tension in surface muscles. However, it might not be the best option for severe nerve-related issues.
Can physical therapy help with a pinched nerve more than massage?
Physical therapy can sometimes provide more comprehensive relief for a pinched nerve than massage therapy alone. A Swedish massage can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation. Physical therapy, on the other hand, addresses the root causes of nerve compression with the help of targeted exercises and manual therapy.
Physical therapy is a holistic approach that helps alleviate pain and promotes long-term healing to prevent future issues. Compared to physical therapy, massage therapy is a more temporary solution to provide relief.
Should you choose chiropractic adjustments or massage for a pinched nerve?
The effectiveness of both chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy depends on the cause and location of the nerve compression.
Chiropractic care focuses on realigning the spine to relieve pressure on nerves caused by misalignments. When done right, this can provide significant relief, especially when the pinched nerve is a result of spinal issues.
Massage therapy targets muscle tension and soft tissue tightness. It works on pinched nerves caused by muscle spasms or inflammation, and helps relax the muscles and improve circulation.
A combination of the two, that is, chiropractic adjustments for spinal misalignments and massage therapy to relieve muscle tension, can be the most effective approach.
Can acupuncture provide relief for a pinched nerve?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. Certain studies show that acupuncture may help alleviate pain and promote nerve can help improve blood flow and stimulate nerve function.
However, some studies show positive effects and while others show no significant benefit beyond placebo. However, research is needed to fully understand acupuncture’s effectiveness for this condition.
When should you avoid a Swedish massage for a pinched nerve?
There are certain circumstances under which Swedish massage for pinched nerves should be avoided. These include:
When to Avoid Swedish Massage:
- Acute Inflammation or Injury: When the pinched nerve is inflamed or recently injured, massage could worsen the condition.
- Undiagnosed Pain: It is important to wait to get a massage till the cause of the pain is ascertained.
- Nerve Inflammation or Neuritis: If you are dealing with inflammation of the nerve, opting for a massage might increase the pain levels.
- Recent Surgery or Injury: Post-surgical areas or fresh injuries should not be massaged without medical clearance.
How can you find a qualified massage therapist for nerve pain in the U.S?
Here are a few things you can consider when trying to find a qualified deep tissue massage therapist for nerve pain in the USA.
- Ask your healthcare provider, like your doctor or physical therapist, for recommendations.
- You can also ask your friends and family for recommendations to gain more insights if they have experience with massages.
- You can also book a qualified Swedish massage therapist for nerve pain online with a reputed platform.
- As you narrow down the list, make sure the ones left have completed formal training from an accredited institution and have a valid practising license.
- Talk to them before the session to see if their methods and your expectations align.
- Ensure they are open to feedback during and after the process. Before booking a session with them, sit down and have a talk with them about your specific shoulder pain issues and figure out if your needs align with their approach.
How much does a Swedish massage cost for pinched nerve relief & how often should you get it?
Getting a Swedish massage is quite affordable. A 60-minute Swedish massage session can start from $129, a 75-minute session from $161.50, 90 90-minute session from $184, and a 2-hour session from $239.
For pinched nerve pain, Swedish massage is often recommended every 1-2 weeks for initial treatment and then as needed for maintenance. If you are still confused, you can always book a Swedish massage therapist online from the comfort of your home and get their opinion on it.
Final thoughts: Is Swedish massage the right choice for your pinched nerve?
Swedish massage is a massage technique that uses long, flowing strokes to relax muscles and improve circulation. With such movements, individuals can alleviate pressure on pinched nerves, providing relief from discomfort.
It is important to understand, however, that not all pinched nerves can be treated with massage alone. Some cases do require medical intervention, for which you need to visit your doctor.
FAQs
Can Swedish massage help relieve a pinched nerve?
Yes, Swedish massage can help relieve a pinched nerve as it reduces muscle tension, improves circulation, and promotes relaxation, resulting in pressure alleviation on the nerve.
Is massage therapy safe for sciatica or herniated discs?
Yes, massage therapy can be safe and beneficial for managing sciatica and herniated discs when performed by a qualified professional.
How long does it take to feel relief after a massage?
Though the time it takes to feel relief after a massage varies, people do experience some form of relief immediately. However, others may experience a longer period of relief when compared to others.
Are there risks if I have a severe pinched nerve?
Yes, there are risks associated with a severe pinched nerve, particularly if left untreated. When there is prolonged nerve compression, it can lead to permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, and even muscle atrophy. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are important, as they help minimize such complications.
Should I see a doctor or massage therapist first?
It’s generally recommended to see a doctor first if you suspect a pinched nerve.
Can massage make a pinched nerve worse?
If not done correctly, a massage can potentially make a pinched nerve worse.
