Conditions We Treat
Massage for Lumbar Disc Herniation & Spinal Stenosis Relief in NYC
Radiating pain, numbness, or stiffness in your lower back doesn’t have to be permanent. Our licensed medical massage therapists specialize in supporting clients with disc herniations and spinal stenosis—helping reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and improve comfort safely.
- Available in FiDi & Midtown West – open 7 days a week
Causes
What’s Going On With Lumbar Disc Herniation & Stenosis?
- Lumbar disc herniation is common, with 5–20 cases per 1,000 adults annually. About 95% occur at L4–L5 or L5–S1, most often in adults ages 30–50. (StatPearls–NIH 2023)
- Disc herniation happens when a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, irritating nearby nerves and causing low-back or leg pain, tingling, or weakness.
- Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and compresses nerves, often limiting movement.
- Long sitting, poor posture, and repetitive strain can worsen nerve compression and inflammation.
At Bodyworks DW, we take a functional approach to disc herniation and stenosis. Even when imaging shows structural changes, pain is often amplified by soft-tissue tension and movement compensations. Our work restores space, mobility, and circulation so you can move more comfortably—using the integrated methods developed by David Weintraub, LMT and taught in our Massage Education & Training program.
Related conditions: Also see our Sciatica and Lower Back Pain pages.
How we treat
How Bodyworks DW Treats Lumbar Disc Herniation & Stenosis
Public domain lumbar X-ray showing spinal stenosis at the lower vertebrae—highlighting the narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of nerve roots. Restoring balanced soft-tissue function around these structures can reduce pressure and improve mobility.
Whole-Body Evaluation
Each appointment begins with a focused intake and movement check to understand how your back, hips, and ribcage are compensating around the irritated or compressed areas. This helps us target supportive structures first rather than applying pressure directly over inflamed tissues.
Targeted Deep Tissue & Myofascial Work for Immediate Relief
We apply precise, measured pressure to decompress the surrounding muscles and fascia—especially the paraspinals, QL, psoas, and glutes—to reduce pressure on the spine and relieve pain. By the end of the session, we can often work more directly on the local area comfortably. The goal is to provide noticeable relief in Session 1 while keeping treatment safe and effective.
Progressive Plan That Builds on Each Session
As symptoms improve, we expand treatment to include connected areas—hips, ribcage, pelvis, and legs—to build on your progress and promote long-term stability, while teaching you practical tools to maintain mobility and prevent flare-ups.
What to Expect
A Progressive Plan
Session 1
Gentle decompression work to ease pain and improve circulation, gradually progressing into deeper techniques as tissues relax. Most clients feel looser and more upright right away.
Sessions 2–4
Reintegrate hip and core mechanics to reduce strain on the lumbar spine and restore healthy movement patterns.
Sessions 5–8+
Reinforce posture, flexibility, and coordination to maintain comfort long-term. We’ll teach you simple self-care to keep improvements lasting.
Ready to start feeling better?
Book a session
Care
Home Care That Helps Between Sessions
We’ll teach you simple, realistic techniques—like gentle pelvic tilts, supported bridge lifts, and mindful breathing—to promote circulation and reduce stiffness without aggravating symptoms. The goal is to help you stay active between sessions without overloading your spine.
For example, here’s a helpful video
Testimonial
What Our Clients Say
Pricing & wellness wallets
Book now. Pay after.
Save up to 25%.
Pay after your session—no prepay.
New here? Select “New Client Massage” to get $25 off your first visit.
Add a Wellness Wallet before your first session or within 7 days after to get up to 25% bonus credit.
START HERE
Book your session
No prepay—card on file to hold; pay after your session.
New here? Choose “New Client Massage” when booking to get $25 off your first visit.
Senior Therapist
Lead Therapist
Owner
60 minutes
$160
/ with Senior Therapist
90 minutes
$230
/ with Senior Therapist
Want extra savings?
Save with Wellness Wallets
Buy before your first session or within 7 days after and we’ll add bonus credit you can use at either studio with any therapist.
$800
Get $160 bonus
20% bonus credit
$1400
Get $350 bonus
25% bonus credit
$5000
Get $1000 bonus
20% bonus credit
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions? Get in touch
Is massage safe for disc herniation or stenosis?
Yes—when performed by trained medical massage therapists who understand anatomy and contraindications. We avoid direct pressure on the affected discs at first and instead reduce tension and improve circulation in surrounding tissues to alleviate compression.
Do I need a doctor’s note for disc herniation or stenosis massage?
No. Under NYS Title VIII licensure (see NY Board of Education FAQ #28), massage therapists can assess whether your symptoms are safe for massage. We refer out only when necessary.
What makes Bodyworks DW’s approach different?
We collaborate with your PT, chiropractor, or physician to ensure care is coordinated. Our approach restores balanced movement across the whole body—not just the spine—helping you move freely and safely.
How many sessions will I need?
Most clients notice improvement within 1–3 visits, with lasting relief after 6–8.
Are there precautions for lower back disc herniation & stenosis massage?
Yes — recent injuries, acute inflammation, fever/illness, or medications affecting tissue integrity require caution.
Full list: NYS Massage Therapy Precautions