Can Massage Help With Pain From Herniated Discs?
By: Daoyi Wellness
Herniated discs are a leading cause of back and nerve pain in adults, affecting everyday function and overall quality of life.
In Canada, more than 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point, and a significant portion of that is linked to disc-related conditions. For many, invasive procedures or long-term medication use are not ideal first options.
That’s why natural, non-surgical therapies like massage therapy have become a popular part of pain management plans.
But can massage really help with herniated disc pain?
The answer is yes—with the right techniques and timing, massage can relieve pressure, ease tension, and promote healing.
What Is A Herniated Disc?
The human spine is made up of vertebrae separated by discs—gel-filled cushions that act as shock absorbers. A herniated disc occurs when the inner gel (nucleus pulposus) pushes through a weakened or torn outer layer (annulus fibrosus), often pressing on nearby nerves.
This pressure can result in local pain as well as referred symptoms like tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.
The most commonly affected areas are the lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck). When a disc presses against the sciatic nerve, for example, it can cause pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg—a condition known as sciatica.
Conventional Treatments For Herniated Disc Pain
Treatment typically begins with conservative methods, such as:
- Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs
- Physical therapy and stretching routines
- Cortisone injections for inflammation control
- Rest and activity modification
- Surgery (e.g., microdiscectomy) for severe or non-responsive cases
While these methods can be effective, they may also come with side effects or lengthy recovery times. Many Canadians are turning to massage therapy as a natural, supportive treatment that can reduce pain and improve function without drugs or surgery.
How Massage Therapy Can Help With Herniated Disc Pain
Massage therapy doesn’t “fix” the disc itself, but it alleviates the symptoms caused by herniation—primarily muscle tension, nerve pressure, and poor circulation.
Here’s how:
Reduces Muscle Tension: Tight or overworked muscles can compress spinal structures and increase discomfort. Massage helps relax these muscles, relieving excess pressure on the spine.
Improves Circulation: Better blood flow helps reduce inflammation and brings oxygen and nutrients to affected tissues, supporting healing.
Eases Nerve Compression: By loosening surrounding muscles and fascia, massage may reduce the amount of pressure exerted on pinched nerves.
Increases Range Of Motion: Regular sessions can improve flexibility and movement in the back, hips, and shoulders, which can be restricted due to pain or muscle guarding.
Supports Stress Reduction: Chronic pain is physically and emotionally exhausting. Massage therapy helps regulate stress hormones like cortisol and promotes endorphin release, naturally reducing pain perception.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Massage For Disc Issues
Multiple studies have shown that massage can be effective in managing back and nerve pain.
A 2011 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that participants with chronic low back pain reported significant relief after receiving weekly massage sessions for 10 weeks.
Another study in the Journal of Pain Research concluded that myofascial release therapy provided improvements in pain intensity and range of motion in people with lumbar disc herniation.
While massage is not a substitute for medical treatment in severe cases, it is widely accepted by Canadian health professionals as a complementary therapy that can safely reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Best Massage Techniques For Herniated Disc Pain
Swedish Massage
Gentle and flowing, Swedish massage promotes overall relaxation and increased circulation. It’s particularly helpful during early recovery stages or for individuals with high sensitivity.
Deep Tissue Massage
Used cautiously, deep tissue massage targets chronic muscle knots and adhesions that develop around the affected spine area. This is only recommended once inflammation and acute symptoms have stabilised.
Myofascial Release
This technique focuses on stretching and loosening the connective tissue (fascia) around muscles and joints. It can relieve tightness that contributes to misalignment and nerve impingement.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points are hypersensitive areas in muscle tissue that refer pain to other parts of the body. Releasing these points can help reduce radiating symptoms associated with nerve compression.
Neural Mobilisation Techniques
These gentle movements aim to free up restricted nerve pathways, making them especially useful in managing sciatica or cervical radiculopathy caused by disc herniation.
Heat-Assisted Massage
Integrating heat (via warm towels or hot stones) helps loosen tight tissues and increase blood flow, providing additional relief during or after treatment.
When Massage Is Safe (And When It’s Not)
Massage is not always appropriate in every stage of disc injury. It should be avoided during acute flare-ups when inflammation is high, or if symptoms include:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Significant or worsening numbness
- Sudden weakness in the limbs
These may indicate a medical emergency and require immediate intervention.
If you’re unsure, consult with your family doctor or physiotherapist before beginning massage therapy. Once approved, always seek out a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) who understands the specifics of working with spinal conditions.
What To Expect During A Massage Session
Your first session will typically involve an in-depth health history and assessment, including questions about your pain, triggers, and activity level. The therapist will then create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Massage sessions may focus on:
- The lower back or neck (depending on disc location)
- The glutes, hips, or hamstrings for sciatica-related issues
- The shoulders and thoracic spine for posture correction
- Gentle, indirect work to avoid aggravating the disc
You might feel immediate relief or notice gradual improvement over several sessions. Some soreness is normal after your first massage, but it should fade within 24–48 hours.
Complementary Approaches To Maximise Results
Massage works best when combined with other holistic approaches. These may include:
- Targeted Physiotherapy Exercises to strengthen core and back muscles
- Ergonomic Adjustments at your workstation or sleeping area
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet rich in omega-3s, leafy greens, and whole foods
- Low-Impact Movement like swimming or walking
- Mindfulness Practices such as meditation or breathing techniques to manage chronic pain response
Your massage therapist may also suggest homecare routines, including stretching, hydration, and self-massage using heat or foam rollers.
Massage Versus Other Therapies For Herniated Discs
Massage is often compared to chiropractic care or physiotherapy. While all can offer benefits, they target different systems:
- Massage Therapy works on soft tissues and nervous system relaxation
- Chiropractic Adjustments focus on spinal alignment and joint mobility
- Physiotherapy emphasizes rehabilitation through exercise and movement patterns
Many Canadian patients find success in using all three as part of a comprehensive, non-surgical pain management plan.
Canadian Guidelines, Coverage, And Accessibility
Massage therapy is widely available across Canada and is covered by most extended health benefits under plans from providers like Manulife, Sun Life, and Canada Life. You typically don’t need a referral, although some insurers may request one for reimbursement.
To find a qualified RMT:
- Check the College of Massage Therapists of your province (e.g., CMTO in Ontario)
- Ensure they have experience treating back pain or disc conditions
- Ask about direct billing and accessibility if mobility is an issue
Conclusion
Massage therapy offers a natural, drug-free way to manage the symptoms of herniated discs. From improving circulation and easing muscle tension to supporting nerve decompression, the benefits are extensive.
When used appropriately and in coordination with healthcare professionals, massage can be a powerful tool in your back pain recovery journey.
Always consult a medical professional before beginning any new treatment plan. If cleared for massage, work with a trusted RMT who can adapt your sessions based on your symptoms and goals.
If you have any questions about our article “Can Massage Help With Pain From Herniated Discs?” or need massage therapy in Toronto contact us at (647) 825-5061 or check out our Google My Business page.