How to Massage to Manage Mid to Lower Back & Chest Pain
Back pain can be debilitating but massage can help reduce the discomfort and improve flexibility.
Massaging Your Mid to Lower Back & Chest Step-by-Step
- 1
With your handheld massager, start with a circular motion on the lower back, being careful to avoid the spine. Using long strokes, work your way up the back towards the heart.
- 2
When massaging the upper back, start from the spine and using short strokes to work your way outward towards the underarm. (Again, be careful not to come in contact with the spinal area.)
You could also use a specifcally designed back and neck massager or lumbar chair massager to avoid your spinal area.
- 3
The same circular technique procedure is used to massage the chest. Start from the sternum and use short strokes to work your way outward toward the underarm.
- 4
DO NOT use the massager over your abdomen or below the rib cage.
What to use
Need help deciding what you need?
Where you hurt and why you’re hurting are two key factors in deciding which massager is best for your specific pain relief.
Product SelectorTips for Using Handheld Massagers
Prioritize Recovery
Rest and/or active recovery: First of all, ease into workouts. If you haven’t been working out on a regular basis, going full throttle right away, particularly with consecutive-day workouts, is going to result and aching muscles.
Hydration is Key
Hydrate: Drinking water during and after exercise helps the body rid itself of toxins, while fighting off dehydration, which can result in painful muscles and excruciating muscle cramps.
Eating Properly
Proper nutrition: Protein sources are necessary to rebuild muscle tissue and fuel the function of various cells, tissues and enzymes. Carbohydrates are vital, as well.
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