Massage Therapy
Chiropractic and massage therapy are two holistic therapies that share a common goal: to to treat the whole person rather than symptoms through natural, hands-on, drug-free techniques. When used in combination with each other, these therapies are preventative and restorative, helping to address the source of stress and pain so that you may achieve optimal health.
Those that add massage therapy to their chiropractic care program, for example, will generally enjoy a faster recovery. And since multiple components of the pain are being addressed, the recovery is usually also more complete.
Chiropractic adjustments will often proceed more easily when the soft tissue has already been relaxed by massage. And the massage is also helpful because it helps to relax the patient before chiropractic care, making them less anxious and relaxed and ready to receive chiropractic adjustment. The adjustments frequently last longer, too, because muscle tension has been released and joints are less likely to pull themselves out of alignment again.
Chiropractic care is based upon the fact that the body is self-regulating and self-healing. These functions are controlled by the body’s nervous system, with the skull protecting the brain and the flexible bones of the spine protecting the fragile spinal cord. But when this system becomes impaired, malfunctions of the tissue and organs may follow, called Subluxation Complex.
A chiropractic adjustment can help to restore the nervous system back to proper functioning, giving the body the ability to heal itself again. A chiropractic adjustment can do wonders for the body, improving everything from range of motion, pain, circulation and even restore the proper communication and life flow to all organs and tissues of the body.
Massage therapy is based upon the same premise of the body having the ability to self-heal and regulate. If the muscles of the body become imbalanced, for example, it can lead to a variety of problems. If muscles are shortened and tightened and one side, the muscles on the opposite side may become overstretched, which can cause pain, weakened circulation, and other problems. But worse, this tightness may also pull the bones the muscles are attached to, sabotaging the work of the chiropractor to realign the body.
A massage therapist can soften and stretch the muscle groups, relieving stress on the opposing muscles groups and strengthening weaker muscles, which complements the work of the chiropractor. Those that are seeking massage therapy for pain but are still suffering should consider chiropractic care, especially if the pain goes away briefly but recurs or, in more serious cases, worsens. If your pain is caused by subluxation, for example, your chiropractor may be able to provide you with immediate relief by realigning and mobilizing your joint. And when it’s not being subjected to the stress of being misaligned, the soft tissue around your joints will likely heal much more quickly.
In this blog, we will discuss the most frequently asked questions regarding therapeutic massage:
What are the benefits of massage?
What kinds of massage are available?
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy, is the massage and manipulation of the muscles and soft tissue of the body. Massage therapy promotes better circulation, brings health and tone to the body, and prevents stiffness and muscle injury.
What does Massage Therapy involve?
Massage therapists use a variety of massage techniques, including effleurage (a light, feathery touch), gliding, kneading and rubbing. Massage is done in a private, clean, quiet area with a minimum of noise or outside stimulation. You may choose to partially disrobe or remove all of your clothing if you are comfortable. If you prefer to remain partially clothed, don’t hesitate to tell the massage practitioner. If she does not respect your request, it’s best to look for another massage therapist.
How much does it cost?
Massage therapy usually ranges from approximately $50.00 to as much as $85.00 per session. The typical session is usually 50 minutes or one hour in length. Some massage therapists will provide a half-hour or a fifteen-minute massage at a lower rate. If you are new to massage therapy, you may feel more comfortable starting out with a brief session. Contact us for current pricing and specials!
What are the benefits of Massage?
In the words of Dr. Andrew Weil, MD, “Many people think of massage as an indulgence or luxury, but there is also ample evidence that massage can benefit many health conditions, from anxiety and back pain to sports injuries and tension headaches.” Common benefits people experience from massage therapy include:
- Improves and increases circulation
- Relieves muscular tension and stress
- Facilitates the body’s natural healing process
- Promotes healing (especially after injuries)
- Relieves pain
- Aids in drainage of excessive fluids and toxins
- Restores mobility to injured tissue
- Balances energy flow throughout the body
- Stimulates feelings of well-being
- Helps connect mind, body, and spirit
Other Types of Hands-On Healing:
ACUPRESSURE
PILATES
YOGA
