Chiropractor vs Massage

Spinal dysfunction, muscle tension, and back pain are very common diseases that affect more than 80 percent of developed countries. Luckily, massage therapy can have profound effects on the spine’s soft tissues and muscles, while chiropractic care can help treat spinal joints and misaligned nerves for optimal function. Often, these conditions work together, and those with muscle pain often have spinal deformities that can easily be corrected with an adjustment. According to research, both of these therapies are fantastic on their own. However, combining these two different therapies can lead to beneficial results.

Chiropractors

Traditionally, chiropractors have expertise in joint and skeletal problems. This often includes neck and back problems, and many people have this image of someone lying down and having their back broken by a chiropractor. What chiropractors do is manage spinal pressures, misalignments, and tensions and use a variety of convenient methods to achieve this.

Typically, one session is used to discuss the patient’s needs, followed by practical treatments to alleviate the problems. For instance, if the patient is suffering from back pain, a chiropractor can perform spinal joint adjustment in conjunction with the use of techniques such as myofascial release and dry needling.

Massage Therapists

Massage therapists are experienced in treating muscle disorders and in relieving pain, tension, and stiffness in the muscles through hands-on treatments. A massage therapist focuses on the soft tissues and muscles and performs one or more types of massage, often with different lotions or oils. Also, the therapist may use various techniques, such as deep tissue massage, Swedish, or pressure point massage to relieve sore muscles.

Chiropractor vs Massage Therapy

Chiropractic and massage therapy have their roots in ancient Chinese culture. Both therapies are considered holistic care, promote health, and improve the ability of the body to heal itself with no surgery or medication. In practice, however, they are very different.

The principal goal of chiropractic care is to take care of the neuro-skeleton. Chiropractors typically use spinal manipulation and manually apply pressure or force to the joints to properly align the joints, bones, and spine.

While the basis of chiropractic is all about the bones and joints, soft tissue manipulation is the core practice in massage therapy. This manipulation is accompanied by improved blood circulation, relaxation, and flexibility. It promotes tissue healing and stimulates the nervous system.

So Which One is better for me?

Essentially, a balance between these two therapies can offer patients the best outcome. Massage therapy can help relax muscles before or after an adjustment, while chiropractic care can last longer if the patient’s muscle tension is released. Massage therapy and chiropractic can be complementary treatments, which is why we offer both therapies at Performance Chiropractic + Physiotherapy.