The American College of Physicians recommends chiropractic care as an alternative to pain-relieving drugs. Their research shows that spinal manipulation along with heat, massage, and acupuncture is effective in treating lower back pain. While the cornerstone of chiropractic care is spinal manipulation, chiropractors also offer other treatments including manual therapy, ergonomic training (how to sit, walk and stand), and posture education. Chiropractors today often work in conjunction with primary care doctors, massage therapists, pain experts, and surgeons to improve the quality of life for patients who experience musculoskeletal pain.
What Happens During a Typical Chiropractic Session?
During a chiropractic session, a Chiropractic Physician will manipulate the joints to help align the musculoskeletal structure and provide greater mobility.
One of the most important tools in this process is the practitioner’s hands. However, a small hand-held adjusting instrument, called an Activator, is sometimes used. This spring-loaded instrument provides a quick, targeted impulse to the tissues or joints. This treatment, as well as any other chiropractic treatment, is especially beneficial when used alongside massage therapy.
Are Certain Types of Chiropractic Care Better than Others?
According to Dr. Ethan Feldman, all types of chiropractic care can be effective and the choice of which technique to use depends largely on the condition between treated and the Chiropractor administering the treatment. Combining chiropractic adjustments with soft-tissue massage is particularly effective.
“My experience is that chiropractic adjustments, especially when combined with soft tissue techniques such as massage therapy and active methods of rehabilitation, such as graduated exercise provides a solid pathway to recovery from injury and an excellent way to optimize one’s health via optimizing nerve function and flow in the body.”
Dr. Ethan Feldman, DC
Instructor of integrated methods of releasing somatic dysfunction through ease
KinEase Release Methods
Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Care Can Ease the Pain of Chronic Conditions
Dr. Feldman explains that chiropractic adjustments help to normalize the hyperactive muscular reflexes and restore a normal range of motion to the joint. Patients with chronic conditions often have diffuse scar tissue. The inflammatory nature of their condition attracts fibroblastic cells. In simpler terms, these cells form a spider-like network of scar-tissue intended to heal tissue but can cause discomfort, pain and a decrease in range of motion. Fortunately, massage therapy can help.
“One can adjust the region, but if the area around it is shrink wrapped in microscopic scar tissue the condition will not fully restore itself and is bound to relapse. Deep tissue massage, cross friction massage, and the like help break down that spiderweb of fibrosis and allow the body to restore itself to normal muscle and tendinous tissue. Conversely, in a new injury, massage techniques that focus on gently supporting lymphatic flow cleanses away these fibroblasts and the inflammation that draws them to the site, and prevents over scarring, allowing the body to recover. Other bodywork methods can help restore muscle balance and coordination, such as PNF and MET.”
Dr. Ethan Feldman, DC
Instructor of integrated methods of releasing somatic dysfunction through ease
KinEase Release Methods
The Top 6 Benefits of Combining Chiropractic Care with Massage Therapy
They complement one another
Massage therapy works on the soft tissues of the body while chiropractic care targets bones and joints. Massage therapy enhances your circulation and blood flow, thus creating warmer tissue and preparing the body for chiropractic realignment. Chiropractic care and massage therapy should be viewed as two complementary treatments, not as two separate or competing ones.
Increases flexibility
It realigns your skeletal structure, so tension releases and it creates balance. However, when you have the massage first, it allows the chiropractic process to flow much easier. Your muscles will be more flexible from the increased blood flow and release of tension.
Aids in pain relief
According to the American College of Physicians, using chiropractic care in combination with massage therapy, as well as with heat or ice and acupuncture will aid in pain relief.
Improved functioning of the central nervous system
Some pain signals are sent via the central nervous system. This is especially common with chronic pain such as in the back. As chiropractic care and massage therapy work to reduce this pain, it also improves the overall function of the central nervous system.
Boosts the immune system
Ongoing stress and tension tend to wear down the body’s natural immune system. The pain relief of chiropractic service and the increased circulation and relaxing effects of massage therapy jumpstart the central nervous system and as an added bonus — give a boost to your immune system. Your immunity will thrive when you have less stress, pain, and tension in your muscles.
Psychological benefits
The comprehensive, thorough process of a massage in combination with chiropractic service does more than relieve all those aching muscles and enhance your health; it also brings psychological benefits too. Massages, in particular, are known to release dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is the brain’s natural “feel good” chemical. It also helps with alertness, focus, and memory. So, not only will you reap the benefits of getting your skeletal system realigned during chiropractic treatment, but you’ll receive a psychological boost, too.
Next time you schedule your massage; don’t forget to add chiropractor services as well. A message will loosen your tissues and increase your blood flow, making it the perfect time to create body wellness and balanced health. Contact Therapeutic Kneads for your appointment today.