Massage therapy helps our patients with a range of ailments, such as headaches and pain. The treatment poses few risks when it is performed by an experienced and specially-trained therapist who considers the patient’s health conditions. Chiropractors use massage therapy because it is congruent with the belief that the body can heal itself without medications and surgery. The physical benefits of massage therapy are far-reaching, from relieving muscle tension to improving joint function. The technique also releases certain chemicals in the brain that give the patient a sense of relaxation and well-being.
How is Chiropractic Massage Therapy Different?
Combining massage therapy with alignments and other techniques is the basis for a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the complex nature of your symptoms. Joint misalignment that is caused by tension in the muscles and damage to the ligaments and tendons can be remedied with massage therapy. Attempting to align joints that are pulled out of place by the surrounding tissues offers little to no long-term symptom improvement and may cause more damage. Massage therapy increases blood flow to the area, and this promotes the body’s healing process. Relieving tension improves your flexibility so that you can perform movements more easily, and you will sleep better.
What Conditions are Treated with Massage Therapy?
- Massage therapy is recommended for treating:
- Upper and lower back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Headaches
- Leg pain, including knee pain and sciatica
The treatment is safe for patients with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions. Pregnant women should include massage therapy in their prenatal chiropractic care to alleviate symptoms caused by changes in the body.
Who is a Good Candidate for Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is safe for most patients, including young children, adolescents, athletes and older patients. You may not be a good candidate if you have a severe injury, such as a bone fracture.
What Should I Expect During a Massage Therapy Session?
We choose the massage therapies techniques that are best for your physical conditions. This may include:
- Swedish massage to improve circulation
- Neuromuscular therapy, also known as trigger point therapy, to relieve tension in the muscles, tendons and ligaments
- Shiatsu massage that targets acupressure points in the body
- Deep tissue massage to relieve problems in the muscles and connective tissues
- Pregnancy massage to alleviate lower back pain, swollen ankles and other issues
- Sports massage to enhance recovery and minimize the risk of overuse injuries
Most people believe that massage therapy is only available at spas, but the therapeutic benefits of the techniques make it a beneficial complement to chiropractic care.