Back Massage Pressure Points

A back massage is very beneficial when it comes to stress relief, relaxation, and the treatment of various disorders that affect the back. A good back massage can help relieve upper and lower back pain and shoulder pain. While massaging the back, the soft tissues and muscles are manipulated by the use of finger and hand movements. This leads to the relaxation of muscles, which helps reduce pain and muscle tension. Massaging helps dilate the blood vessels, which in turn improves blood circulation and metabolism.

If you go to a massage clinic, massage center, or a spa, trained and certified professionals will try to relieve stress by providing you a relaxing massage. As visiting a spa or massage clinic might not always be possible, simple massage techniques can be followed to provide relief from back-related problems. To perform a massage at home, one needs to be aware of the various pressure points and massage techniques.

Pressure Points for Back Massage
Pressure points are nerves that are bundled up at certain junctures throughout the body. When these nerves are manipulated by applying pressure, they get stimulated. Pressure points have been in use since ancient times. According to healing therapies such as acupressure, acupuncture, and reflexology, the stimulation of pressure points helps restore balance by allowing the life force energy to circulate freely. Apart from massage therapy, pressure points are also used in martial arts.

There are several pressure points on the back on which pressure is applied during a massage. These pressure points are found on both sides of the spine on the shoulder blades and the lower back. Some of the pressure points on the back are described below:

Pressure Point 1
The first point is found right at the top of the back, at the junction where the spine meets the neck on both the shoulders. It is midway between the neck and the shoulders. Place your hands on the point, and press forward with your fingers.

Pressure Point 2
The second pressure point is found between the shoulder blades on both sides of the spine. Around an inch of pressure should be applied to both the points simultaneously. Make sure that you do not apply direct pressure on the spine at any time.

Pressure Point 3
The third point is found on both sides of the spine, in line with the elbow of your hand. Apply an inch of pressure for about thirty seconds.

Pressure Point 4
The fourth point is found on the muscles, below the line of the pelvis. Pressing this point may give rise to a little tingling in the leg.

Pressure Point 5
This point is found below the armpits, on the sides of the muscles that run from the armpits to the back.

Pressure Point 6
You will be able to find this pressure point right at the back of both the shoulders.

If you are planning to use massaging techniques on one of your family members, be sure that they are not affected by any serious back-related disorder or chronic back pain. If they do, it's advisable not to follow these massaging techniques, as it might cause harm.

To enhance the results, use an essential oil while massaging the back. And most importantly, remember to be gentle with the application of pressure. After all, your goal is to diminish the pain and not cause or increase it.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
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