Massage Therapist or Chiropractor

There is a wide range of therapies and health professions that can help prevent and treat back pain. Two commonly sought after healthcare practitioners are a massage therapist or chiropractor. To help you choose between a massage therapist or chiropractor, we would help you understand a little more about each therapy and their approach.

Scope of Practice

A chiropractor is a primary health care provider who can treat a variety of medical conditions. Their primary goal is to release spinal subluxations and ensure that the nervous system and body function at the best possible level. A chiropractor is responsible for treating the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. This means that they treat muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. Besides manipulating the spine, chiropractors can use massages, shock wave therapy, physical therapy, braces, or splints. Chiropractors can provide dietary advice and prescribe vitamin and exercise regimens as treatment.

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

What is their Philosophy?

Each treatment options are beneficial to patients, but their approaches differ.

The approach of chiropractors is not necessarily to focus on the painful area for temporary relief, but to focus on “WHY?” the patient exhibits these symptoms.

Although massage therapists offer more temporary relief and treat symptoms, they do not address the cause of the symptoms.

Training and Education

One major difference between a massage therapist and chiropractor is training. A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who requires not only four years of basic training, but also a four-year Ph.D. in the chiropractic program. During their program, chiropractors pass various sets of certification exams and tests and take courses in chemistry, physics, physiology, anatomy, and biology.

Conversely, a massage therapy school generally includes about 500 hours of training, although this varies from region to region.

Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Work Best Together

Ultimately, a balance between these two therapies offers patients the best possible outcome. Massage therapy can help relax the muscles before or after an adjustment, and a chiropractic back adjustment can take longer if the patient’s muscle tension is released.

Do I Need a Massage Therapist or Chiropractor?

Massage therapy and chiropractic care can be a helpful preventive measure to prevent the discomfort and pains of everyday life. It’s usually best to see a chiropractor first, especially if you feel you have an injury, so they can ensure you can safely see a massage therapist.

If your main problem is muscle stiffness or pain, or if you just want to relax, massage therapy is the option for you. Massage can help increase blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing lactic acid build-up, which often causes muscle aches and cramps.

Chiropractic is a better option if you have a pinched sciatic nerve, disc problems, or joint pain. Chiropractors can identify the cause of the pain, be it skeletal or muscular, and help you choose the appropriate treatment. You can find out if you should visit a massage therapist or chiropractor at our Edmonton clinic.