What Massage Is Best for Back Pain?
Here’s What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You
Back pain hits differently. Some days it feels like a dull, nagging tightness… Other days it’s a sharp pull that stops you mid-movement. But the hardest part? Waking up and feeling like your body is already tired before the day even begins. If you’ve been dealing with stiffness, muscle knots, or stress that lodges itself right between your shoulders or your lower back, you’ve probably asked yourself: “What massage is actually best for back pain?”
At Lomi Spa, here’s the truth we always tell our clients: 
Different back pains need different types of healing. And choosing the right massage can mean the difference between temporary relief… and finally feeling like yourself again.
Let’s break it down.
1. Deep Tissue Massage — Best for Chronic Back Pain & Muscle Knots If your back pain has been with you for weeks or months, and you feel those hard, stubborn “lamig” spots that never seem to go away… Then Deep Tissue Massage is your best friend. (Reference: Cleveland Clinic)
Why it works: It targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissues, breaking down those tight spots and releasing long-held tension.
Perfect for: Office workers Drivers Gym goers People who sit for long hours Anyone feeling “heavy” on the back or shoulders Many clients describe this as “masakit na masarap”—an intense relief that resets the body.
2. Traditional Hilot / Lomi-Lomi — Best for Stress-Triggered Back Pain Sometimes, your back pain isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and energetic. If your back feels sore because of stress, burnout, fatigue, and emotional buildup, then Hilot / Lomi-Lomi Massage is ideal. (Reference: Healthline)
Why it works: Uses warm coconut oil, long flowing strokes, and deep rhythmic pressure Releases blockages and improves circulation Calms the nervous system, reducing stress-related stiffness
Perfect for: Those who feel “bug-at,” overwhelmed, or mentally tired. You don’t just walk out with a relaxed back—you walk out feeling lighter inside.
3. Hot Stone Massage — Best for Tight, Tense, Overworked Muscles There’s a special kind of back pain that feels like your muscles are “locked” or too tight to move. For this, Hot Stone Massage works wonders. (Reference: WebMD)
Why it works: Heat melts muscle tension, allowing the therapist to work deeper without causing discomfort.
Perfect for: People who have a low pain tolerance Those with cold, tight muscles Anyone who wants deep relief with gentle pressure Many clients fall asleep during this massage—and wake up feeling new.
4. Ventosa Cupping — Best for Upper Back Pain & “Lamig” Spots If you feel pain around the shoulder blades, upper back, or neck… especially from computer work… Ventosa (Cupping Therapy) is the most effective. (Reference: NCBI)
Why it works: Suction lifts tight muscles and boosts blood flow, helping release toxins and muscle knots.
Perfect for: Stubborn shoulder pain “Baradong likod” Neck stiffness Stress buildup It’s quick, powerful, and brings instant relief for many.
So… What Massage Is Best for YOUR Back Pain?
If you’re unsure, here’s a simple guide:
Chronic tightness / knots? → Deep Tissue
Stress + body heaviness? → Hilot / Lomi-Lomi
Tight + cold muscles? → Hot Stone
Upper back stiffness? → Ventosa/Cupping
And if you still can’t decide, our therapists at Lomi Spa can assess your condition and recommend the best treatment for your pain.
Because at the end of the day— your back isn’t just asking for rest. It’s asking for relief, release, and a chance to feel light again. Ready to say goodbye to back pain?
Book your healing session at Lomi Spa today.
Your body deserves this!