The Effectiveness of Short-term Massage Versus Trabert Current Therapy in Patients With Low Back Pain

Trabert current is an interrupted direct current of low frequency (143 Hz) applied via medium sized electrodes supported on a thick moist viscose sponge. These electrodes are placed near the spinal column along the thoracolumbar region. The electrodes are separated from each other by a distance of 3-4 cms.The current is passed through electrodes placed on the body. The intensity of the current is gradually increased short of pain. The feeling should be a pronounced but a comfortable 'tingling' sensation ('comfortably strong'). By doing this, the optimum current strength specific to the patient is found. The intensity of the current is slowly increased in the first few minutes as patients get used to the sensation. It is thought that this current provides pain relief, reduces muscle spasm and increases blood flow.

Therapeutic massage is the manipulation of the soft tissue of whole body areas to bring about generalised improvements in health.Massage is thought to work through a mechanical action and a reflex action. A mechanical action is created by moving the muscles and soft tissues of the body using pressure and stretching movement. This mechanical action is based on breaking up fibrous tissue and loosen stiff joints.It may help heal damaged muscle, stimulate circulation, clear waste products via the lymphatic system, boost the activity of the immune system, reduce pain and tension and induce a calming effect.