There are many muscles in the low back and hips that develop trigger points with referred pain into the hips and down the leg sometimes this mimics more serious pain conditions caused by herniated or bulging discs*. Neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release and  Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) & Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation are very effective ways to alleviate pain eliminate trigger points by increasing circulation and restoring optimal health to these areas. There are however some causes of low back, hip and leg pain that may be the result of serious conditions that require medical attention and you should consult your doctor first.

Herniated or bulging discs* in the lumbar area can cause nerve root compression as the nerve exits the spine. This can result in pain or numbness in the hip or down the leg to the foot. Sometimes by releasing tightness in the low back muscles and stabilizing the pelvis this pressure can be eased from the nerve root. (*Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.)

Nerve Entrapment is caused when nerves are trapped between soft tissue. Piriformis syndrome is an example of nerve entrapment in the hip. Pressure is put on the sciatic nerve as it passes under or through a tight piriformis muscle causing deep pain in the hip, buttock or down the back of the thigh. NMT, Myofascial Release and Stretching (AIS) can be very effective in addressing this condition.

See also: Joint Pain & Arthritis

A number of specific conditions causing lower back, hip pain and leg pain may respond well when treated with therapeutic massage.  These include low back pain, sciatica, lordosis, kyphosis, scoliosis, lumbar disk pathology, spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, facet joint irritation, neuromuscular pain, anterior pelvic tilt, posterior pelvic tilt, lateral pelvic tilt, trochanteric bursitis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, piriformis syndrome, muscle strain and patellofemoral pain syndrome, and hamstring pulls.

Chondromalacia-massage helps balance secondary muscle groups.  Anterior Cruciate Ligament Strain-massage relieves secondary muscle spasm. Collateral Ligament Sprain-massage relieves secondary muscle spasm, meniscal injury massage may be helpful during the rehabilitation phase of treatment. 

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome massage relieves secondary muscle tension helping normalize patellar tracking. Patellar Tendinitis massage relieves secondary muscle spasm & helps reduce inflammation, Osgood-Schlatterʼs disease, Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITB Syndrome), Shin Splints, and Anterior Compartment Syndrome in the non-acute/inflamed condition.