Chiropractic care, defined by the American Chiropractic Association as “a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health.” Chiropractic care is often sought out because of discomfort and relies on addressing underlying issues which are the cause of such pain. When coupled with massage therapy, chiropractic care can enhance the ways in which massage helps heal the body. Deep tissue massage therapy, commonly referred to as chiropractic massage, can provide maximum relief to a patient’s discomfort when used alongside a chiropractic adjustment. These two therapies are commonly combined because of the increased benefits offered by using both services concurrently.

Combining Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Adjustments

Should I Have A Massage Before or After My Chiropractic Adjustment?

When performed immediately after a chiropractic adjustment, the benefits of a massage are greatly enhanced. Receiving a chiropractic massage after an adjustment helps the body recover quicker, allowing nerves and muscles to align correctly more quickly than they would with an adjustment alone. It also helps to decrease soreness that some people experience after a chiropractic adjustment. When a massage is performed before an adjustment, muscles become more loose and relaxed, allowing for an easier adjustment. Range of motion is improved when deep tissue massage is used alongside chiropractic adjustments, as it allows for tightened muscles to stretch and relax.