5 Common Causes of Back Pain We See in Our Downtown Edmonton Clinic
Back pain is one of the most common complaints we treat at Strive Holistic Massage — but the root causes are often more complex than people realize. While every client is unique, we’ve seen a few clear patterns emerge over the years. If you’re dealing with persistent discomfort in your lower, mid, or upper back, one of these culprits might be playing a role.
1. Long Hours at a Desk (Especially Without Proper Ergonomics)
In downtown Edmonton, many of our clients work in office environments where they spend most of their day seated. Prolonged sitting — especially with poor posture or an unsupportive chair — places pressure on the lumbar spine and leads to tight hip flexors, hunched shoulders, and weakened core muscles. Over time, this creates chronic tension patterns that massage can help unwind.
Tip: Try adjusting your monitor height, using a lumbar cushion, or taking short standing breaks throughout the day.
2. Past Injuries That Were Never Fully Resolved
A sports injury, car accident, or strain from years ago might not hurt anymore — but that doesn’t mean your body forgot about it. Old injuries often create compensation patterns, where certain muscles tighten or overwork to protect the injured area. This can lead to ongoing back pain that only surfaces years later.
Massage therapy helps by identifying these imbalances and supporting the body in releasing deeply held tension and restriction.
3. Chronic Stress and Emotional Tension
Stress doesn’t just affect your mind — it lives in your body. The shoulders, upper back, and neck are common areas where emotional tension accumulates. Over time, this can result in painful knots, reduced mobility, and even disrupted sleep.
Our therapists often incorporate relaxation-based massage with deeper therapeutic techniques to help calm the nervous system and support the body in fully letting go.
4. Overuse from Fitness or Physical Work
Athletes and active individuals often push through soreness without realizing the toll repetitive movement can take. Whether you're lifting at the gym, training for a marathon, or doing physically demanding work, these repetitive motions can strain the lower back and surrounding muscle groups.
Massage therapy improves recovery, relieves built-up tension, and helps prevent injuries from overuse. We see many clients who benefit from a combination of sports massage and deep tissue therapy to stay pain-free and moving well.
5. Sleep Position and Mattress Issues
The way you sleep — and what you sleep on — has a big impact on your spine. If your mattress is too soft or too firm, or if you tend to twist or curl your body in certain positions, it can contribute to misalignment and back pain over time.
Massage can help correct the muscular imbalances that come from poor sleep posture, and your therapist can also offer guidance on positioning or pillow support to help reduce strain.
You Don’t Have to Live With Back Pain
Understanding the cause of your back pain is the first step to long-term relief — and massage therapy can play a key role in that process. At Strive Holistic Massage in downtown Edmonton, we take the time to assess your posture, movement, and tension patterns so every treatment is tailored to your body.
We offer:
Expert massage therapists trained in deep tissue, cupping, Graston, and more
A convenient downtown location inside Evolve Strength
Direct billing and easy online booking
➡️ Learn more about Massage for Back Pain Relief in Edmonton
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📅 Book your appointment now and start feeling better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of massage is best for back pain?
The most effective type of massage for back pain depends on the root cause, but deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release are commonly used. At Strive, we tailor each treatment to your unique body and goals.
How often should I get massage therapy for chronic back pain?
For chronic or recurring back pain, starting with weekly or bi-weekly sessions is common. Your RMT can adjust the frequency based on your progress and overall needs.
Can massage therapy help with upper, mid, and lower back pain?
Yes — massage can effectively target all regions of the back. Our therapists assess where tension and dysfunction are present and adjust techniques accordingly.
Will massage therapy work if my back pain is caused by poor posture?
Absolutely. Massage can relieve muscle tension caused by poor posture and help reset patterns that lead to discomfort. We also share simple stretches and posture tips when helpful.
Can massage therapy help prevent future back pain?
Yes. Regular massage can improve circulation, release tension before it builds up, and support better alignment — all of which contribute to preventing future pain episodes.
