The Benefits of Massage

Massage therapists use a variety of techniques to address soft tissue problems. Gentle kneading and stretching lengthens contracted and irritated muscles and fascia. Painful sprains and strains, as well as myofascial adhesions, can be addressed directly with massage techniques that improve circulation and stimulate healthy separation and realignment of injured fibers. In general, massage increases circulation. This reduces painful swelling and inflammation, and promotes healing by removing waste products and bringing nutrients to your tissues. Like a sponge absorbing water, both fascia and muscles begin to soften and lengthen.

Massage supports Chiropractic

You can benefit in a number of ways by adding massage therapy to your chiropractic care program. Recovery is normally faster and more complete when you address multiple components of your pain. Chiropractic treatment often proceeds more easily, with less discomfort, when soft tissue has been relaxed with massage. You may be less anxious and more ready to receive chiropractic adjustment after a relaxing massage adjustments frequently have a better effect when muscle tension is released.

Soft tissue components of your pain

Soft tissue irritation and guarding can actually spread because it causes protective muscle tightening in surerounding areas. Over time, tight, inflamed muscles and fascia (together called myofascia) suffer poor circulation and can develop glue-like myofascial adhesions, which prevent muscles from lengthening completely. Painful trigger points can also develop, often referring pain or tingling to other areas in the body. In extreme cases, tight muscles can compress nerves or blood vessels.

Why addressing soft tissue is important

Addressing soft tissue problems is an important complement to chiropractic care. This is because muscles move joints, while ligaments and fascia support them. If a joint is adjusted without addressing related soft tissue problems, you may still experience pain. In addition, your tight muscles and shortened fascia can prolong the healing process and cause a joint complex to heal in a tightened and stiff state.

Physical Benefits of Therapeutic Massage

• Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments
  • Reduces pain and swelling
  • Reduces formation of excessive scar tissue
• Improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids
• Helps relieve tension, strain and whiplash related headaches
• Reduces muscle spasms
• Provides greater joint flexibility and range of motion
• Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness
• Promotes deeper and easier breathing
• Rehabilitation after injury
• Strengthens the immune system
• Improves posture

Please contact Advanced Alternatives with any questions you have. We are always available to help you find the health care you are seeking through an extensive referral list of local medical, orthopedic, chiropractic, acupuncture and holistic practitioners.