Do I Need A Massage Or A Chiropractor?

There is a continuing fight between massage therapy and chiropractic. Who’s the true winner? Okay, really no battles. Massage therapy and chiropractic function in combination.

Chiropractic treatment and massage therapy are often confused about being the same or somewhat similar. Although some similarities can be shared, there are many different treatments. They are also effective in avoiding such conditions and enhancing the healing process while at the same time offering pain relief.

Understanding these variations will help any person decide if they need to see a chiropractor or a massage therapist to meet their health needs. Chiropractors and massage therapists are mindful of the value of other therapies, but most chiropractors would strongly prescribe massage therapy for such conditions.

What Is The Difference Between Massage Therapy and Chiropractic? 

Chiropractic care and massage therapy have origins in ancient Chinese culture. Both therapies are called holistic, encourage wellbeing and improve the body’s ability to heal itself without medicine or surgery, but in reality they are very different.

Neuroskeletal care is the main objective of chiropractic care. Chiropractors typically use spinal manipulation and manually applied joint force or pressure to change the spine, bones and joints to their correct alignment.

Although chiropractic treatment is focused on joints and bones, the basic practice of massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues. This manipulation comes with increased circulation and flexibility and relaxation. It activates the nervous system and facilitates the healing of tissues.

Education and Training

The educational background is one of the main gaps between chiropractors and massage therapists. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who require not only a 4-year undergraduate degree but also a 4-year doctorate in chiropractic. During their programs, chiropractors pass several rounds of board and certification examinations and take courses in physics, chemistry, genetics, anatomy and physiology. Massage Therapist School, on the other hand, normally requires about 500 hours of training, although it varies from state to state.

Who should I see if I am experiencing lower, upper, or neck pain?

If your muscles are tired and you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, massage may be the best alternative. You should also visit your massage therapist if the root of your pain is muscular in nature; if you have a muscle overwork or if you have a spasm.

But if the discomfort is caused by a weak posture, a strained ligament, or a certain kind of injury, the chiropractor will fix the issue by re-aligning. Your doctor will make sure that you are in the long run by showing you a set of exercises that you can perform at home to avoid further injury and strengthen your muscles.

Both of these treatments can be very beneficial on their own, but they also go well together.  While massage therapy may help loosen muscles before or after chiropractic adjustment, back adjustment may last longer if your muscles are relaxed after a massage.