What specific stretch can help alleviate lower back pain during a Swedish massage?

Gentle spinal twisting is particularly effective in alleviating lower back pain during a Swedish massage because it promotes mobility and flexibility in the spine while also engaging the muscles of the back. This stretching technique helps to relieve tension in the lower back by encouraging a gentle rotation of the lumbar spine, which can improve circulation to the area and enhance muscle relaxation. By engaging in this twist, tightness in the surrounding muscles can be released, leading to improved comfort and a greater range of motion.

The other options, while beneficial in various contexts, do not specifically target the same muscle groups or biomechanical functions that gentle spinal twisting does. For instance, forward bending can place excessive strain on the lower back if not performed with proper form and may not be as effective in addressing muscle tension specific to the lower back. Static stretching of the arms does not directly affect the muscles of the lower back and thus lacks relevance for lower back pain relief. Side bends can assist in lateral flexibility but may not provide as comprehensive a release for the lumbar area as gentle spinal twisting does.