Chiropractic is a hands-on alternative treatment that is used to properly align the body’s musculoskeletal structure without surgery or medication. It involves a gentle manipulation of the joints and bones, including the spine, to reduce pain and improve function.
In addition to spinal manipulation, chiropractors also use other techniques to treat a variety of conditions and health issues. These include massage, nutritional therapy, energy medicine and stress management strategies.
Massage therapy is a natural, drug-free way to reduce pain and increase mobility. It targets the muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is a great addition to chiropractic treatments as it can ease muscle tightness and help relax the nervous system. It is also used to help prevent injury and boost the immune system.
Regular massages can also alleviate headaches and migraines, and it may even help to prevent pregnancy-related discomforts. This is because it can alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders, which are common areas of pain for people with chronic headaches or migraines. Massage therapy also promotes relaxation, which can help relieve the symptoms of these conditions.
Unlike a massage, a chiropractic adjustment reduces joint restrictions and misalignments in the body to reduce pain and inflammation. The treatment is a highly-controlled procedure that involves the use of spinal manipulation and gentle force.
Chiropractic treatment can address a wide range of conditions and ailments, including headaches, migraines, back pain and joint problems. It can also alleviate a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, poor posture and sleep disorders. In addition, it can improve athletic performance and help patients recover from sports injuries.
There are many ways to achieve holistic healing, and it is important to seek the advice of a qualified practitioner before trying any of these techniques. In addition to chiropractic and massage therapy, other holistic healing options can include meditation, yoga, mindfulness and nutrition.
Chiropractic and massage therapy are complementary forms of healthcare that work well together. Chiropractic treatment focuses on the hard tissues such as bones and joints, while massage therapy addresses soft tissue such as muscles and tendons. Choosing one of these methods without the other can leave some health benefits unachieved.
A massage before a chiropractic adjustment can help the doctor of chiropractic to more easily manipulate the joint. The increase in blood flow from the massage helps the patient to relax, which will enhance the effectiveness of the chiropractic treatment.
It is recommended that patients have both chiropractic treatment and massage therapy on a regular basis to enjoy the full benefits of these complementary treatments. The benefits that are realized by combining these two modalities make them ideal for those who lead active lifestyles, want to enhance their athletic performance and recovery from injuries, those who have sedentary jobs and suffer from muscle tension and postural imbalances, and those who are pregnant.