Techniques for (healed) Broken Back

[danielle w]

Do you have any clients who have had a broken back? What has been your experience with their tissues and treatment techniques for the old scar tissue, adhesions, and sensitive areas?

Thanks!

 

[Speedster]

Do you have more details on the nature of the break? What specifically was the injury? what was the treatment? How long ago? Has the client received massage since? Advice will vary, based on the details.

 

[honey2]

Oh, I see. I'll get more information. Client has definitely had massage since, doesn't come for the injury itself more for relaxation, but the back is very sensitive and causes pain in daily living. I'll get specifics then post again.

Also I was interested in hearing from others who have worked with people who have had a "broken back"....such a vague injury.

 

[Lorne]

I have a client who has had a broken back and neck. We are working out some serious restrictions. I can't really offer general help.....the specifics are very important.....but when you get those, I will see if I can offer you any insight from my experience.

 

[??Lonely Soul??]

I had back surgery 18 years ago due to spondylolisthesis. It is basically a vertebral stress fracture caused by excessive loads. I was always an athlete and had no problems throwing my body around as a younger person. They fused L5 and did a laminectomy (sp?). The fusion was done with my own hip bone. I have no problems with massage in the scar area. However, I am extremely sensitive in the area where the bone graft was taken. It is still numb somewhat and it is almost a ticklish sensation unless the pressure by the therapist is deeper than normal. How long ago was the "broken back?" Try asking the client what feels good and what doesn't. If they've had plenty of time to heal, at least reinjury shouldn't be a concern.

 

[Monkey Lover]

However, I am extremely sensitive in the area where the bone graft was taken. It is still numb somewhat and it is almost a ticklish sensation unless the pressure by the therapist is deeper than normal.

YFChoice, do you any edema in that leg from the graft?

I have a client who broke his back 8 yrs ago. Has rods on both sides, and lot of atrophy in the L glutes and leg. After over a year of work, he can finally clench his butt (he's very happy ), and starting to get tone back in his gastroc. You have to understand this guy is one big guy, thick. Had a hard time with DT and STR in the begining. We've made such great progress.

 

[crunchy hannah]

No edema. In fact, I have no problems with my back or legs at all. I'm sure it helps that I regularly hike, snowshoe, weight train, cycle. If I completely go over the edge and get super fatigued, I can feel it in my lower back. But that is rare.