QuestionHi Christopher,
Is it alright to massage someone with a slipped disc?
susan winchester
AnswerGreetings Susan, and I appologize fro the delay in answering (I am usually faster than this). Generally, you can massage someone with a slipped or bulging disk, with a few slight modifications. I would definately NOT massage very deep into the muscles surrounding the disk. In addition to the risk of pressure on or near the disk injuring it further, the muscles around it are going to be VERY sensitive. They are probably in some spasm, so anything deeper than a light touch might cause them to flare up. They do need touch, however, so I use a very gentle but firm pressure, listening to the muscles and feedback from the client.
I would also avoid any long stretches or twisting movements. This might aggravate an already delicate condition. Legs, arm and back stretches would be out small stretches of the hands and feet would be okay.
I hope this was of some help, Susan. Please feel free to write back with any other questions you may have. Also please feel free to rate me on AllExperts, as both positive and constructive feedback help me learn to help others better.
Sincerely,
Christopher Hall
