IPB University Neurologist: Don’t Just Get a Massage When You Have a Pinched Nerve
Lower back pain that radiates to the legs is often immediately attributed to a pinched nerve. However, according to dr Yeni Quinta Mondiani, SpN, a neurologist and lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition at IPB University, cases of lower back pain that are actually caused by a pinched nerve are estimated to account for less than 10 percent.
“The causes of lower back pain vary widely. Most cases are actually mechanical low back pain, which is generally related to problems with muscles or ligaments,” said dr Yeni.
What Is a Pinched Nerve?
A pinched nerve is a condition in which the intervertebral discs press on the surrounding nerves. In addition, lower back pain can also be triggered by other causes, such as degenerative diseases, physical trauma, bone tuberculosis (TB), and even the spread of cancer to the spine.
Because the causes are diverse, dr Yeni emphasized the importance of recognizing the symptoms before concluding on one’s own that the pain is caused by a pinched nerve.
Recognize the Symptoms
dr Yeni explains that nerves have three functions: sensory, motor, and autonomic. Sensory disturbances can include numbness, tingling, or radiating pain. Motor disturbances can lead to weakness or even paralysis, while autonomic disturbances can manifest as bowel and bladder dysfunction.
To determine the cause of the pain, a doctor needs to conduct a detailed medical interview, a physical and neurological examination, and provocation tests. Diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are only ordered based on the suspected cause identified during the initial examination.
Don’t Just Get a Massage
This multi layered diagnostic process shows that the cause of lower back pain cannot be determined solely based on the pain felt. This is why dr Yeni urges the public not to get a massage indiscriminately when they suspect a pinched nerve.
“If you’ve been diagnosed with a pinched nerve, you shouldn’t get a massage. Unless, of course, they involve specific movements recommended by your physical therapist,” she said.
She explained that massage can indeed feel soothing for pain related to muscles. However, if the cause of the pain turns out not to be a muscle issue—for example, if it’s actually a pinched nerve—massage has the potential to worsen the condition. Therefore, the cause of the pain must be confirmed first before taking any action.
Be Aware of Warning Signs: Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES)
According to dr Yeni, the public also needs to recognize warning signs, such as lower back pain accompanied by bowel or bladder dysfunction, as well as numbness or loss of sensation in the buttocks and genital area. These symptoms may indicate cauda equina syndrome (CES), a condition caused by severe compression of the nerve bundle at the base of the spine. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
For those unsure whether their symptoms require specialized care, dr Yeni advises against delaying a medical evaluation. “If you’re unsure, just go see a general practitioner first. In fact, a general practitioner can determine whether these symptoms require a referral or can be managed on their own,” she said.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Once you’ve recognized the symptoms and warning signs, the next step is to prevent the condition from developing or recurring. Some steps you can take include staying physically active, strengthening your back muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, and consistently following a healthy lifestyle. (Fj) (IAAS/EPK)
