A 2019 CDC report found that 80% of older adults in the United States have experienced lower back pain due to prolonged work. Many of them use medication like painkillers but can not get the long lasting solution. Right now, chiropractic care and massage therapy, two natural and drug-free solutions, become popular. But the question is, ‘Which is better?’ ‘Chiropractor or massage for lower back pain’ Let’s explore the answer as well as the difference and similarity of chiropractic care and massage therapy for lower back pain.
What is chiropractic care for lower back pain?
A chiropractor always follows some steps to treat in an effective way. Here are some essential steps.
Taking a physical exam
First of all, a chiropractor takes a physical exam of posture, arm and leg mobility, muscle strength and other unordinary things they find.
Lower back pain attacks the spine and nerve. So it is necessary to identify the root cause of your lower back pain.
Realigning the spine
We ensure the perfect spinal adjustments. If there is a misalignment of spine or nerve, we realign it. Prolonged work and sitting are the causes of misalignment.
Massaging
We apply massage therapy by hand or technical support to make your body function more smoothly, normal blood circulation and easy breathing.
Chiropractic massage is both similar and different from normal massage therapy.
Exercising
Exercise like swimming and cycling are essential to ease the joints. A chiropractor usually suggests exercises that can press gentle force to the lower back and remove the pain.
Taking tissue therapy
This therapy not only softens the tissue but also tightens the muscle. It also makes the muscle stronger.
Taking hot and cold therapy
We use a hot water bag as well as ice to reduce pain and discomfort. Each therapy is used for a different purpose. Hot and cold therapy are very useful for relieving unexpected pain.
Imaging scan
X-ray or MRI is also used if needed. Usually accidental injury needs an imaging scan. Lower back pain can be caused from accidental injury.
Myofascial techniques
Myofascial tissues are the centre of spines. Every spinal problem comes off myofascial tissues. So, our chiropractors treat these tissues first.
It brings motion in chiropractic adjustment. It also reduces pain in the lower back.
Ultrasound therapy
Some special cases, our chiropractors apply ultrasound therapy. It makes the tissues cold and the tissues release toxins. Released toxins are the sign of effective results. Normally, the lower back is the storehouse of toxins. So, it needs to release toxins from the lower back to ease the problem.
Graston technique
Chiropractors use manual therapy like graston technique. It is an instrument used technique that helps break down defect tissue of the lower back. Chiropractors massage back with the instruments to soften the tissues and strengthen the muscles. This method improves blood circulation.
Benefits of chiropractic care for lower back pain
Chiropractors help the lower back pain with some benefits.
- Without the use of medication, chiropractic care helps you to relieve pain.
- The techniques applied by chiropractors are effective to reduce pain and inflammation.
- We always keep in mind that our goal is to help patients make their daily activities comfortable.
- We are also helpful for athletes, runners, and anyone who wants to enjoy an active lifestyle.
- We try to reduce the risks of future injuries.
According to a Canadian military survey, chiropractic care was preferred by 51% of respondents for its ability to reduce chronic pain and enhance spinal alignment effectiveness
What is massage therapy for lower back pain?
There are some different types of massage for lower back pain. Each of them is used in a different way.
Free hand massage
The therapist firstly tries to realign the spines by hand. In this process, your blood circulation will be faster than before.
Soft tissue therapy
By massaging the therapist tries to soften your tissue. It is very helpful to reduce pain from the muscles. Soft tissue releases toxins, a metabolic byproduct of the body.
Shoulder massage
A therapist firstly realigns the shoulder. Then he/she uses massage therapy which is helpful for relieving pain from the lower back.
Benefits of chiropractic massage
Massage therapy for lower back pain has many benefits. Here are some examples:
Pain Removal
Massage therapy is the best pain remover. It can relieve you from neck pain, back pain, hip pain, especially from lower back pain.
Improved Circulation
Before massage, your blood circulation may not be normal. The therapist uses massage therapy to make your blood pressure normal.
Faster Recovery
After a special massage, your muscle strength will recover easily. It will also recover your mental freshness and remove tension.
Massage therapy was the top choice for pain relief among 70% of respondents in the survey due to its ability to relax muscles and improve blood flow, offering temporary yet effective relief
Chiropractor vs massage: What’s the key difference?
Chiropractors set their goal to relieve the pain by spinal manipulation and nerve realignment. On the other hand, massage therapists help relieve pain by muscle strength and tissue softening. Chiropractors are more qualified than massage therapists.
Survey data revealed that both massage and chiropractic care were highly rated for managing chronic lower back pain, with respondents frequently combining these treatments for the best results
Can a chiropractor and massage therapist work together?
Yes. Chiropractic care and massage are the most natural and drug-free solution for lower back pain. Both of the treatments aim to relieve pain by spinal adjustment and muscle strength. Combining chiropractic care and massage therapy enhances outcomes, as seen in the survey where veterans reported higher satisfaction when integrating both approaches to chronic pain management. Even their combined treatment can challenge the surgery.
The End
Though chiropractor and massage work with similar aims, there are some practical differences between them. Both of them are better from their side but for more safety and long lasting solution, people should choose chiropractic care for lower back pain.
No more today. Thanks for your time reading our blog. Stay safe and sound.
FAQ
What is the difference between chiropractic care and massage therapy for lower back pain?
Chiropractic care focuses on fixing your spine and nerves. Massage therapy helps relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Is chiropractic care more effective than massage therapy for lower back pain?
Chiropractic care can help with long-term pain by realigning your spine, while massage helps relieve muscle pain. Both can be helpful.
Can chiropractic care and massage therapy be combined for better results?
Yes, combining both treatments can give better results by fixing the spine and relaxing muscles together.
Are there any risks associated with chiropractic care for lower back pain?
Chiropractic care is safe for most people, but it may cause discomfort or soreness for a short time after treatment.
How long does it take to feel relief from lower back pain with chiropractic care or massage therapy?
Many people feel better after a few sessions, but it may take more time depending on the pain.
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