When combined, chiropractic care and massage therapy provide a comprehensive healing approach. This synergy optimizes health by addressing both the structural and muscular aspects of injury recovery, providing an unparalleled holistic treatment experience.
Chiropractic treatment addresses misalignments in the spinal cord and joint structures of the body to reduce pain, increase range of motion and improve function. Massage therapy manipulates soft tissue like muscles, tendons and ligaments to warm these tissues and relax them, reducing muscle spasms and increasing blood flow, which allows for more flexibility and a quicker recovery.
Getting the best results from either type of treatment is more likely when both are used consistently. Chiropractic and massage therapy can be utilized before or after an adjustment and they work well as complementary treatments.
Inflammation is a key part of the healing process, but it can also lead to serious health problems when it occurs too frequently or for extended periods of time. The combination of chiropractic and massage therapy reduces inflammation, which in turn helps the body heal faster. Massage also helps to promote proper circulation, which provides the necessary nutrients to the cells and organs of the body.
Massage therapy can be utilized before or after a chiropractic adjustment to extend the effectiveness of that adjustment. During an adjustment, the spine is placed under pressure to move into the proper position. Massage therapists use techniques like kneading and friction to help the muscles relax. This relaxation allows the chiropractor to better adjust the spine without adding unnecessary pressure or stress to the area.
Both treatments work to help relieve back and neck pain. They can also treat myofascial pain syndrome, which is triggered by over-tight muscles. Chiropractors often use tools, such as x-ray machines and activators, to locate and diagnose the problem areas of the body. Massage therapists use techniques, such as squeezing and stretching the muscles to release tension and knots, to help ease myofascial pain syndrome.
When massage is used after a chiropractic adjustment, the muscles are more relaxed and can support the vertebrae longer. This allows the chiropractic adjustment to be held longer and gives the patient greater flexibility. Massage therapy is also a good treatment for sports injuries because it can prevent stiff muscles and decreases the likelihood of future injury.
Combining massage and chiropractic is an excellent way to create total body wellness. It is important to choose a clinic that offers both therapies, so that the professionals can communicate and work together to deliver an effective treatment experience. Regular check-ins between the chiropractor and massage therapist also allow for the evaluation of progress in the healing process. The team of professionals can then fine-tune treatment plans to accommodate the evolving needs of their patients. This approach to wellness and healing is the key to a happier and healthier life. Contact Midtown Family Wellness today to schedule an appointment to get the full benefits of combining massage and chiropractic.