When it comes to an aching back, you don’t have to choose between massage or chiropractic care, as it’s not an “either/or” option. Many people find the relief they are seeking from back pain by combining both elements into their ongoing treatment plans.
Faster Healing and Effective Results
Whether you were involved in a car accident, had a sports injury, or simply are plagued by sore back muscles, you could experience many benefits from an alignment that’s either preceded or followed by a massage. The musculoskeletal system of the back consists of bones, tendons, muscles, and soft tissue. Sometimes one or more of these components malfunction and cause limited mobility and flexibility, as well as a host of other problems, for the body’s structure.
The complementary relationship between chiropractic and massage provides patients and clients with a unique opportunity to get the most out of their treatment programs. While chiropractors focus on the alignment and motion of joints and bones, massage therapists work on getting the kinks out of their clients’ muscles. Working together, they can target problem areas and promote quicker healing.
Reasons to Combine Massage with Chiropractic
Increased Flexibility
Regardless of the order in which you get the dual treatments, there are benefits. Patients who got massages after chiropractic adjustments report greater flexibility and less muscle tension for longer periods than those who only received an adjustment or a massage.
Reduced Stress Levels
Research done in clinical studies at the Touch Research Center at the University of Miami showed that massage can reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body. This can be especially helpful when getting chiropractic alignments, as some patients who are in a lot of pain tense up before their adjustments.
Improved Circulatory Systems
Our bodies’ circulatory systems also benefit from a good massage. Getting the blood and sluggish interstitial and lymph fluids flowing normally supplies vital nutrients to injured tissue. This hastens the healing process while also removing harmful waste by-products. Doubling up on chiropractic care and therapeutic massage can help patients and clients achieve natural homeostasis.
This doubled-pronged, holistic approach to wellness is not just for those who have been injured. Incorporating massage into chiropractic care has multiple benefits for each system in the human body. Still not convinced? Here’s another argument in support of taking both treatments — it just feels good to have a relaxing massage. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with stress, that’s as good a reason as any to just relax and enjoy.
As always, if you feel like you need help managing your chronic pain, we recommend that you see a specialist. Schedule a consultation at Spencer Chiropractic Center and let us ease your discomfort and help keep you pain-free in 2019!