Massage
Many patients benefit from a combination of chiropractic treatment and massage therapy. These two types of therapy have what is known as a “synergistic effect” which means that, together, they can result in faster recovery times. Chiropractors may use massage on soft tissues to help reduce swelling and inflammation, improve circulation, and to aid in the healing process.
When a patient first begins chiropractic treatments, his or her body is very stiff and more resistive to adjustments. Massage therapy helps to relax the muscles and release tension which, in turn, enhances the beneficial effects of chiropractic adjustments.
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, studies have shown that massage therapy provides some important benefits to overall health and wellness such as:
- Improves blood circulation – aids in the muscle recovery after physical activity
- Relaxes muscles to improve range of motion
- Increases endorphin levels – effective in the treatment and management of chronic pain
- Aids in the treatment of insomnia
A study conducted in 2001 by the University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute concluded that massage helped to reduce lower back pain, moderate depression and anxiety as well as improve sleep.
Trigger Point Massage
Neuromuscular therapy or “trigger point myotherapy” is considered to be the most effective type of massage therapy. According to the the American Academy of Pain Management, this type of massage therapy is a very effective treatment for back pain that results from soft tissue injury.
