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How Therapeutic Massage Complements Chiropractic Care

Written By Back to Health Chiropractic and Massage on January 4, 2018

Getting a massage may feel like a luxury expense or a bit of a guilty pleasure, but it is actually an important treatment for a variety of health problems.

One of the top reasons people go see a chiropractor is for back pain. An experienced chiropractor will help correct any vertebral misalignments that might contribute to the back pain. This can alleviate back pain in a variety of ways, including providing space to pinched nerves that can cause pain.

The Problem with Tight Muscles

A chiropractor will often recommend therapeutic massage in addition to receiving chiropractic adjustment. This way, tight, tense muscles won’t be fighting the chiropractic adjustment and trying to pull the spine back out of alignment. 

Muscles often become tight or lose their elasticity due to repetitive stress, lack of movement (such as sitting at a desk for hours on end), or injury. 

Fascia, which is the connective tissue that sounds muscles, can become sticky and glue-like, and adhere to muscles and skin. This can further reduce range of motion and leave muscles tight and stiff.

The Benefits of Massage Therapy

A good massage therapist can release muscle knots, free up fascia, and relax muscles so the spine can remain in a more natural alignment. 

Massage has many other benefits, including:

1. Increased relaxation

The more relaxed your muscles (and you!) are, the less likely you will be in pain. You will also sleep better and feel more energetic and flexible.

2. Increased circulation

More blood flow helps muscles by bringing important nutrients to the tissues. This can reduce muscle soreness and help in recovery from injury.

3. Increase endorphins

More “feel good” chemicals for your brain means less depression and anxiety. This can also alleviate pain.

Talk with Your Chiropractor About Therapeutic Massage Therapy


Posted In: Massage Therapy Chiropractic Care