How Massage Therapy Helps Relieve Back Pain

 Massage therapy is often used in combination with chiropractic care because both offer techniques that aim to improve one’s mobility,  flexibility, and the relief of pain. Dr. Jay McClanahan and his staff at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, notes both techniques often work in harmony, allowing for a faster recovery because when the body can relax, it’s easier to realign the spine and help optimize your nervous system functioning.

How Massage Therapy Helps Relieve Back Pain

Massage therapy consists of manipulating the body’s soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissue), - which may include stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, and vibration. Massage therapy is particularly helpful in relieving back pain as follows –

• A massage helps to relax tense muscles in the back, which usually helps alleviate muscle spasms, back pain, and tightness. Note that massage aids in the reduction of stress and anxiety, which are proven contributors to muscle tension that can only aggravate an already painful back condition.
• Massage therapy loosens tight muscles, which improves flexibility and increases your back’s range of motion, making it easier to move due to less stiffness.
• Massage promotes improved blood circulation - especially to the muscles. These nutrients and oxygen are what the tissues need to reduce inflammation and help in the repair process.
• Massage therapy, through its relaxing effects, begins to reduce stress levels (and associated cortisol levels), which can help alleviate the emotional/physical components that contribute to back pain.
• Massages can assist in the correction of muscle imbalances – promoting better alignment and reducing back strain.  
• Massage stimulates the release of the body's natural painkillers - endorphins. These natural hormones help reduce pain perception and even offer a sense of well-being.
• For individuals with injuries that have led to chronic back pain, a massage can help break down scar tissue in the muscles and connective tissues, which helps reduce related back pain.

In addition, research continues to reveal how important it is to encourage your mind/body awareness as this can help identify tension areas early and allow you to take steps to avoid these potential issues from worsening through the use of self-care techniques.

Types of Massage Therapy Offered at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center

• Deep Tissue Massage
• Relaxation Massage
• Swedish Massage
• Sports Massage
• Pregnancy Massage
• Youth Massage

Contact a Leading in Nitro, WV, Chiropractor Near Year

If you experience persistent or severe back pain, contact Dr. McClanahan or a member of our professional staff at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 304-776-1520 or online. We look forward to tailoring guidance and therapeutic exercises to help relieve back pain and prevent its reoccurrence.