ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support

toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Self-Massage

Self-Massage

Get Started

Massage is something many people use for back pain. And you can do it yourself with a tennis ball.

To help you relax, you could take a hot bath or shower first, or do a few stretches. But that's up to you.

  1. Lie on your back.

    Keep your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.

  2. Put the tennis ball against your back, right where it hurts.
  3. Take a deep breath.

    Then, take your pick:

    • Hold for a few seconds.
    • Hold for a few seconds, and then lift yourself and move the ball to another area.
    • "Roll" your back over the ball.

You can also do this standing up, which is handy when you're at work or any place where you can't lie down. Stand with your knees slightly bent and your back flat against the wall.

You can also do this massage with tennis balls in a sock. Stuff two tennis balls into a sock. Tie a knot in the sock to keep the tennis balls right next to each other. Put the stuffed sock behind your back so that one ball is on each side of your spine. Then press against the floor or wall.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: February 25, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.