7 Conditions Massage Therapy Can Help Treat

Over the years, massage therapy has become increasingly popular as a complementary and alternative therapy for pain relief, particularly for those who prefer a non-invasive approach to natural pain management.

Whether you are feeling a little sore after an injury, suffering from a chronic condition, or struggling with body aches, massage therapy can be an effective treatment option to help you alleviate pain and achieve better overall health and well-being. 

The benefits of chiropractic massage therapy aren’t just limited to rewarding you with a soothing experience; chiropractic massage therapy can also help treat various physical and mental conditions.

In this article, we’ll talk about the conditions chiropractic massage therapy can help treat and how it differs from other treatments. We’ll also tell you what to expect from your first massage therapy session at Oak Brook Medical Group.

What Is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is a manual therapy that manipulates soft tissue and muscles in the body to improve physical function, alleviate pain, and promote relaxation. The hands-on technique has been used for centuries to help people manage their pain and stress levels, and it’s widely recognized as a safe and effective method to promote healing and treat a range of conditions.

During a massage therapy session, a trained and licensed massage therapist will use various techniques to manipulate affected tissues in the body and loosen tight muscles, which might be causing pain, soreness, stiffness, and other issues. 

These massage techniques can include stroking, kneading, compression, and friction, among others. The therapist may use their hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, or tools to apply pressure to different parts of the body, such as the back and legs, to help you feel relaxed. Chiropractic massage can help treat the root cause of the condition.

Here are some benefits of why massage therapy has become the first choice among people struggling with back and neck pain, muscle soreness, headaches, and more.

• Promotes Pain Relief  

Chiropractic massage therapy helps alleviate pain caused by conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and arthritis. As it targets the affected joints and soft tissues, massage therapy helps reduce muscle tension and inflammation in the body, which helps increase blood flow and promotes healing.

• Reduces Stress to a Great Extent 

Some abstract studies have shown that massage therapy is effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It can lower the levels of stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol and adrenaline, and stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators.

• Improves Blood Circulation Throughout the Body 

One of the primary reasons behind swelling and pain in the body is poor blood flow. Massage therapy can improve blood and lymphatic flow in the body to increase the body’s ability to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the cells and tissues while removing waste products.

• Increases the Range of Motion and Flexibility

Stiff muscles and joints can affect mobility and range of motion and can also cause severe pain in the affected region. Chiropractic massage can be particularly helpful for people with conditions such as arthritis or those recovering from injuries or surgeries.

A massage therapy session can help loosen stiff joints and tense muscles, so you get an improved range of motion. 

• Enhances the Effectiveness of the Immune System Function 

The immune system is the primary protection the body has against harmful external elements. Factors like age and extra weight can affect the functionality of the immune system, making it weaker. 

Massage therapy can help stimulate the immune system and boost its ability to protect the body from illness and disease.

How Is Massage Therapy Different From Other Treatments?

Nowadays, you can easily find several treatments claiming to help you with natural pain management, and it can become difficult to choose the right option. When choosing a treatment for pain and other conditions, it’s important to understand how chiropractic massage is different from other options and the benefits you can expect.

Below, we’ve explained how massage therapy is different from other treatments to help you make an informed decision.

• Non-Invasive Treatment 

Massage therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not involve the use of drugs, needles, or surgery. It means that the treatment is generally considered to be a safe and low-risk option for people who may be sensitive to other treatments. 

Because massage therapy is non-invasive, there is no need for anesthesia, thus, it reduces the risks of any side effects. 

• No Downtime 

Unlike other treatments, like surgeries that may require extensive downtime for recovery, massage therapy has no downtime. 

After a massage therapy session, if your therapist gives the okay, you can return to your normal activities immediately without any restrictions. You can easily manage your normal schedule while getting treatment to alleviate pain and other symptoms of the medical condition.

• Holistic Approach 

Most treatments for body pain and similar symptoms only address a particular area. For example, if you opt for endoscopic foraminoplasty for a bulging disc, it will only work for the affected region. If you are experiencing pain in your legs and have high-stress levels, this treatment will not have any benefit for that.

On the other hand, massage therapy takes a holistic approach to healing, which means that it treats the whole body and not just the specific symptoms or conditions. The treatment focuses on the interconnectedness of the body and mind and recognizes the importance of addressing physical and emotional needs. (Read about 8 advantages of seeing a holistic chiropractor in Oak Brook.)

• Personalized Treatment 

Most medical treatments follow a similar procedure and might not be very effective for treating your condition. Everyone is unique, and the symptoms you might be experiencing can also differ from what other people with the same medical condition experience.

Massage therapy is a highly personalized treatment that can be customized to meet your unique requirements. A skilled massage therapist will assess your specific needs and preferences and tailor the treatment to your specific goals and concerns for better results.

• Complementary Therapy 

In severe cases, conditions like sciatica and arthritis may require surgical intervention. Massage therapy is still beneficial after you undergo surgery or any other treatment. You can expect quicker recovery, better healing, and additional benefits for your body and mind.

Massage therapy can be used as the main treatment or complementary treatment depending on the condition you want to treat. Chiropractic massage therapy is performed by a specialist that is able to include the chiropractic care and adjustments during the session. To experience the amazing benefits of this therapy treatment and to get better results, you should choose expert providers.

At Oak Brook Medical Group, we’re a team of professional and highly-qualified chiropractors and massage therapists that work together to assess your condition and symptoms to recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Fill out the book online form to schedule your appointment with one of our skilled team members.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with Massage Therapy?

Several studies and reports have proved the effectiveness of massage therapy in treating pain in a wide range of conditions. It doesn’t just work on the symptoms, but is effective for treating the root cause of the condition as well to help you get long-lasting relief.

Here are some conditions massage therapy can help treat:

1. Muscle Strains and Sprains 

Muscle strains and sprains are common injuries that can occur during intense physical activity, and even everyday activities sometimes. These injuries result in damage to the muscles or tendons and can cause pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in the affected area and nearby regions. 

Massage therapy can help manage and heal these injuries by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting healing. The treatment is known to be effective in the acute phase of the injury (the first few days after the injury occurs). 

An abstract study proved that massage therapy is also highly effective in the sub-acute and chronic phases of the injury (after the initial inflammation has subsided) as it helps reduce scar tissue formation while improving the range of motion.

2. Sciatica 

The sciatica nerve is the largest in the body, stretching from the knee joint to the lower part of the spinal cord. When this nerve gets compressed, it causes extreme pain in the lower back and legs.

As the pressure on the pinched nerve increases, you feel more pain, and other symptoms of sciatica also start appearing. If left untreated, sciatica can affect other parts of the nervous system and even result in loss of control in the bladder and bowel, while also reducing muscle strength and density. 

Chiropractic massage therapy can effectively treat sciatica as it reduces muscle tension, improves circulation, and relieves pressure on the nerve. A massage therapist can also help a patient to improve flexibility and range of motion in the affected area by using several techniques. This can include trigger point therapy, chiropractic adjustment, and deep tissue massage to alleviate pain and other symptoms.

3. Sports Injuries 

Sports injuries are common in athletes, both amateur and professional, and can be caused by various factors, including overuse, poor training techniques, and trauma. These injuries often include sprains and strains, while some athletes even experience more serious injuries like fractures or dislocations.

Several people take sports injuries lightly and think they can heal automatically with time, but the injuries can significantly impact an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. Some injuries, like dislocations, can even have long-term effects on the body.

Massage therapy can be used to help manage and prevent sports injuries by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting healing. The treatment can also help to improve the range of motion and flexibility, which can reduce the risk of future injuries.

When you visit a chiropractic care center for sports injuries, the massage therapy professional will assess your condition to determine the severity of the injury. Seeing a therapist can help alleviate the potential symptoms you otherwise would experience due to the injuries. 

4. Arthritis 

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. There are a few different types of arthritis, but most people experience symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

In the initial stages of arthritis, it’s common to feel a burning sensation and joint pain. As the condition enters the severe stages, you start experiencing more pain, fatigue, and reduced range of motion in the affected area.

If not addressed by an expert, arthritis can lead to a range of complications and have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Some potential consequences of untreated arthritis include chronic pain, and permanent joint disability, which makes it difficult to maintain balance while walking.

Therapeutic massage therapy can be an effective direct and complementary therapy for managing the symptoms of arthritis. A good massage therapist can help to reduce pain and stiffness in the affected joints and promote relaxation.

A therapist or chiropractor massages the muscles around the affected area to release tension and improve the blood flow, which helps reduce inflammation and chronic pain. In addition, the therapy can also restore the natural range of motion, provided you follow the massage therapy routine consistently.

In addition to physical benefits, massage therapy can also help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic pain.

5. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. The cause of fibromyalgia is not well understood, and there is currently no cure. 

However, there are a variety of chiropractic treatments, such as massage therapy with chiropractic adjustments, that can help manage the symptoms of fibromyalgia and improve an individual’s quality of life.

Massage therapy is highly effective for managing the symptoms of fibromyalgia, as it helps reduce pain and stiffness in the affected muscles while improving sleep quality. 

A severe case of fibromyalgia might require you to undergo ongoing chiropractic massage therapy sessions. The chiropractor or therapist can also recommend some complementary treatments to massage care for better results.

6. Hypertension 

Hypertension might not seem like a significant issue in its initial stages, but it can have a substantial effect on your physical and emotional well-being.  This condition occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is too high, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health complications.

In an abstract study, massage therapy for treating hypertension is proven to be effective. When you receive massage therapy, it leads to increased blood flow and promotes healing.

The therapy sessions also help release tension in the muscles, which means a higher level of relaxation. Plus, it can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones. You will naturally feel much better, and the symptoms of hypertension fade away with time.

7. Headaches 

Headaches are very common in modern life, but having them every day can have a significant impact on your life. There are several reasons you might get a headache, including sinus issues, hormonal changes, stress, and so on. 

With massage therapy, you can manage headaches, prevent pain, and find relief. As the massage increases blood circulation, it helps bring more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and tissues of the head and neck. This helps in reducing inflammation and treating the pain associated with headaches.

» More: What Chiropractic Care Can Do for Headaches

The effectiveness of massage therapy isn’t limited to these seven conditions, it can also help treat conditions like frozen shoulder, back pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, rotator cuff syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, and more. 

To experience the health benefits of massage therapy, it’s essential to choose the right practitioners. Oak Brook Medical Group offers the best treatment to our patients and has been the leading choice for massage therapy among the residents of Oak Brook, Illinois, and the surrounding area.

You can also book an appointment with us by filling out this book online form or calling 630-317-7478.

How to Prepare for a Massage Therapy Session

Preparing for a massage therapy session can help you get the most out of your treatment and ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed. Here are some quick tips to help you get ready for a therapy session in Oak Brook.

• Stay Hydrated 

It’s important to drink plenty of water before and after your chiropractic massage therapy session. Drinking water can help to flush out toxins and prepare your muscles for the massage.

• Eat Lightly 

It’s highly recommended to eat a light meal or snack a few hours before your massage therapy session. A heavy meal can make you feel uncomfortable during the massage, while an empty stomach can make you feel lightheaded.

• Communicate With Your Massage Therapist

Let your massage therapist know about any injuries, medical conditions, or areas of your body that are particularly sensitive. You can also let your therapist know if you prefer a particular type of massage or if there are areas of your body that you would like them to focus on.

• Arrive Early 

Arriving early at the chiropractic clinic can help you relax and prepare for your session. You can also use this time to fill out any necessary paperwork and discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your therapist. 

• Stay Relaxed 

Try to clear your mind and relax before the session. Take a few deep breaths and focus on the sensations in your body. This can help you experience the benefits massage therapy offers and leave you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.

What to Expect in Your First Massage Therapy Session in Oak Brook, Illinois

Your first chiropractic massage therapy session can be an exciting experience, but it’s natural to feel a little nervous or unsure about what to expect. To ease the stress, we’ve explained the massage therapy process and things you can expect during the initial session.

• Intake Process

At the beginning of your session, your massage therapist will ask you about your medical history, any injuries or conditions you have, and what health benefits you hope to get out of the massage. This information will help your therapist tailor the session to your specific needs.

• Discussion of Preferences

Your therapist may ask you about your preferences regarding pressure, areas to focus on, and other elements of the massage. This is your opportunity to communicate your needs and preferred massage techniques to your therapist.

• Changing of Clothes 

In order to be comfortable when lying on the massage table, you will need to be undressed or in clothing with a relaxed fit.

• Treatment 

Once you are all set for the treatment, your therapist will begin the massage, using various techniques to release tension and promote relaxation.

You can communicate with your therapist throughout the session, letting them know if you feel uncomfortable or if you would like them to focus on a particular area.

• End of Session 

At the end of your massage, your therapist will leave the room to allow you to dress in private. They may offer you water and discuss any recommendations they have for self-care or follow-up chiropractic and massage treatments.

Remember that your chiropractic massage therapist is there to support you and help you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or communicate your needs and preferences throughout the session. With time, you may find that massage therapy becomes an important part of your self-care routine.

Don’t Wait to Feel Better – Schedule Your Massage Therapy Appointment Today!

Massage therapy can reward you with wonderful results, and the holistic method works on your entire physical and mental wellness. At the Oak Brook Medical Group, we have highly-trained massage therapists and chiropractors that assess your condition first before preparing a personalized treatment plan.

Our team works to make the overall session comfortable while ensuring you get the most out of it. Along with hands-on techniques, we even use advanced tools to promote relaxation and a calming effect.

Ready for your first chiropractic massage therapy session? Fill out the book online form or call us at 630-317-7478 to schedule an appointment. Find out how chiropractic massage can help you find natural pain relief and more!