Biomedical Science vs. the Science of Medical and Sports Massage – Part 2

Medical Massage in the Prevention of Spinal Fusions and Other Orthopedic Surgeries

From the Author

Here is the link to Part 1 of my article: Biomedical Science vs. the Science of Medical and Sports Massage https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/biomedical-science-vs-the-science-of-medical-and-sports-massage-part-1.htm

In Part 1, in addition to other discussions, I wrote about “Medical and Sports Massage as a Distinct Science.” I apologize for repeating myself, but this distinction is crucial for both practitioners and the general public to understand.

In today’s case study discussion on the role of medical massage in preventing spinal fusions and other orthopedic surgeries, I aim to provide a broader perspective on the distinct science of massage—particularly its clinical reasoning, methodologies, and goals.

Please visit the Testimonials/Case Presentation page. https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/testimonials/

Scroll down to find a self-case presentation by Dr. Michael. While he describes his case very well, I will offer additional insights into how and why we were able to prevent a complex spinal fusion surgery.

Here’s what Dr. Michael wrote:

“Boris explained that my difficult clinical neurological picture wasn't solely due to the MRI findings but also to significant tension buildup within the muscle groups responsible for weight-bearing. Since these muscles were unable to bear the primary load, the weight was being transferred to the intervertebral discs and facet joints, which are not designed for such stress. By restoring muscle function, he effectively reduced the pressure on my already injured lumbar spine, thereby decreasing mechanical compression. At the end of the procedure, he applied a special method of ice massage and explained its mechanism, noting that properly applied ice massage is the best anti-inflammatory method, even comparable to corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. I couldn’t argue—I felt better. After eight treatments, I felt completely restored and returned to my normal routine, including performing surgeries and working out, without any limitations.”

This case highlights the unique philosophy and clinical approach of medical massage.

• When reviewing an MRI, doctors often decide on urgent spinal surgery based on structural abnormalities.
• As a medical massage practitioner, my approach was different:
• By examining soft tissue, I immediately detected tension within the fascia and muscles.
• I palpated trigger points and recognized spinal compression as the cause of the neurological symptoms.
• Using a specific medical massage protocol for lower back disorders, I was able to restore the muscles’ weight-bearing ability, decompress the spine, and significantly improve the patient's clinical picture—all within a few treatments.

Today, Dr. Michael is enjoying life, performing surgeries, working out, and traveling—all without surgery.

Why Medical Massage Should Be Considered Before Surgery

It’s important to note that buildup of tension within the fascia and muscles cannot be detected by radiological imaging such as MRI scans. This is one reason why many doctors, relying solely on imaging, recommend unnecessary and complicated surgeries that sometimes fail to resolve the patient’s condition.

Lately, more scientific publications have begun addressing the issue of unnecessary surgeries.

Additional Case Studies

please click link to Phil’s case presentation Phil

• Phil suffered from a severe lower back disorder, limiting his ability to walk, drive, and travel.
• His orthopedic surgeon warned him that he was at risk of paralysis.
• After medical massage treatment, Phil fully recovered.

Jon’s Case: Jon

• He was scheduled for both spinal surgery and knee replacement—recommendations made solely based on MRI findings.
• After medical massage treatment, surgery was no longer needed.

Eileen O’Farrell’s Case: Eileen O'Farrell

• She was scheduled for hip replacement surgery due to a diagnosis of "bone-on-bone" degeneration.
• However, during my examination, I found that she could still move her hip, albeit with pain.
• This suggested that the problem was muscular and fascial dysfunction rather than true joint fusion.
• After decompressing the hip joint through medical massage, she regained mobility without surgery.

This is a link to the instructional protocol I applied for Eileen—feel free to click for details.

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/products/ceu-volume-9.htm#video_only

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/instructional-massage-programs/

please read description of program #9

The Power of Ice Massage in Recovery

Many of the case presentations highlight the “miracle effect” of ice massage.

• As Dr. Michael mentioned in his testimonial, properly applied ice massage has been proven to be more effective than both non-steroidal and corticosteroid anti-inflammatory drugs.
• I have produced a masterclass instructional video teaching step-by-step techniques for applying ice massage on different areas of the body. Click here for more information.
• https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/products/ice-massage-master-class.htm
• https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/instructional-massage-programs/

However, ice massage alone is not enough.
It is most effective only after applying medical massage techniques that:
✔ Release built-up tension in the muscles and fascia
✔ Address trigger points
✔ Restore normal function

This link provides a detailed description of the program, where I demonstrate the protocol while explaining each technique and movement. Feel free to explore. https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/products/ceu-volume-1.htm#video_only

Final Thoughts

Please don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your own experiences.

Best wishes,
Boris Prilutsky

P.S. In the upcoming Biomedical Science vs. The Science of Medical and Sports Massage – Part 3, we will discuss cases of thoracic outlet syndrome, tension headaches, brain fog, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, and more.