A degenerative disc problem in the spinal column can cause lower back pain. There are sometimes changes to the discs from what is termed degenerative disc disease. This condition is estimated to affect up to 30% of those in the age range of 30 to 50 years old. As the disc degenerates, the vertebrae come in closer contact causing pain. To relieve some of the pain associated with degenerative disc disease, massage chairs have been used successfully.

To better understand degenerative disc disease, it is important to know the structure of the spinal column. The spinal column is a long row of small round bones. These small round bones are interconnected by muscles, ligaments and soft tissue which allows the spine to be flexible. As the bones degenerate, slight changes to the alignment of the spine can occur which causes stress on the soft tissues.

The spinal column provides support for the body and to maintain its mobility. The spinal column also protects the spinal cord which is the bundle of nerves between the base of the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal column has small round bones which are maintained separate by soft discs. The soft discs provide a cushion between the hard surfaces of the cervical discs.

The activities that you undertake directly affect the health of the spine. Smoking can cause biochemical and structural changes to the soft tissue areas causing degeneration. Other activities such as aging, wear and overuse can cause degenerative changes as well. The spine is designed to evenly distribute the weight of the body across the spine. Certain activities can cause the force to be concentrated in a small area like the lower back. If these activities are repeated through time, then degeneration can occur.

Therefore, some deterioration may occur. The deterioration of the soft tissue separating the vertebrae is reported to cause dull or sharp pains. Massage therapy has been used in conjunction with chiropractic adjustments to help reduce the friction. This also helps to reduce the associated pain between the degenerated discs.

In general, the pain associated with degenerative disc disease is low back pain. The spinal column carries much of the weight of the body. As activity is undertaken, the physical stress is distributed throughout the spine. Normally, the low back experiences more stress and fatigue. With disc degeneration there is a high incidence of inflammation.

Massage chair therapy has been used in two different forms to help relieve the pain associated with degenerative disc disease. A finger press or rolling type of massage is used to alleviate pressure between the discs. Kneading and tapping massages are used to loosen the muscles in and around the spinal column.

Chopping massage chair treatments are also performed where the shoulders and back muscles are targeted. A rapid chopping motion is used to invigorate larger muscles of the back and shoulders. This helps improve blood flow and to release tension that has built up over time. These muscles must take up any slack from the spine, so when degeneration occurs these muscles are also affected. Release of the tension from these areas also helps to restore the balance with the spinal column.

Kneading and tapping style massages are used to loosen the muscles and connective tissue around the spinal column and the back in general. Pressure tends to concentrate on a few areas in the spinal column with most activities. Loosening up these muscles helps to rebalance the pressure and better redistribute it.

Although massage chair therapy has been successful in certain degenerative discs disease cases, you should consult with your medical provider to find the right treatments for your situation. Massage chair therapy is a convenient and practical alternative to using a masseuse. The convenience and access to these important pain relieving therapies are imperative.

Massage chairs provide an effective massage treatment to help reduce the pain in the lower back. Many massage chairs have incorporated heat therapy, music and even traction systems to provide a range of therapies. All of these are available in the comfort of your home. Imagine that you could get the pain relief you need whenever you want it!

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