What To Do About Neck Pain: Chiropractor vs Medical Massage
Determining the differences between chiropractic treatment and a medical massage to relieve neck pain best.
My Neck Hurts: Should I See A Chiropractor Or Get A Medical Massage?
An estimated 30% of the population experiences neck pain, with over 50% reporting frequent recurrences. In many cases, patients turn to holistic treatment options such as visiting a chiropractor or receiving a medical massage to restore range of motion and realign the spine. While a chiropractor and a medical massage seem similar, there are key differences to be aware of concerning each respective treatment strategy.
When to see a chiropractor
Chiropractic treatment is performed by a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) who is trained in manipulating the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors focus on restoring a patient’s mobility by realigning the spine along with specific joints. Using hands or chiropractic adjustment tools, chiropractors apply controlled, strategic pressure to affected areas. If successfully performed, many patients experience relief in pain points such as the head, neck, and lower back. Since the spine acts as an extension of the body’s central nervous system, many doctors recommend professional treatment for ailments related to the spine or joint pain.
The best time to see a chiropractor is for issues connected to mobility and overall body movement. Chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system or feelings of numbness or tingling indicates a need for realignment to restore range of movement. Experienced chiropractors work with patients to establish a treatment plan that addresses pain points while amplifying existing treatment regimes.
The benefits of a medical massage
While chiropractors work with the musculoskeletal system, massage therapists work exclusively with the body’s muscle and soft tissue. The goal of a medical massage is to relieve tension while easing tension. Practitioners use oils or lotion to massage the muscles, increasing blood flow and circulation to the source of pain. Numerous healthcare practitioners recommend seeing a massage therapist if muscle pain or tension is a crucial concern. Unlike chiropractic work, massage therapy is not used to address pain associated with the musculoskeletal system. The benefits of massage therapy include stress relief, an increased range of motion, and higher levels of energy.
Chiropractor and medical massages: better together
Overall, chiropractic treatment and medical massages work best in tandem. Some patients report an amplification of the benefits of chiropractic treatment when receiving a massage shortly after a visit to the chiropractor. While each practice has different strategies, the overall goal of pain relief and healing is the same. Since either treatment option can be used to treat temporary or chronic pain, many physicians recommend listening to the body’s pain points before deciding on a treatment plan.