If you are suffering from lower back or neck pain, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy are two holistic and drug-free options; however, understanding the differences will help you decide which one is best for your needs. Serving residents throughout Soldotna, AK, the caring professionals at West Chiropractic Clinic provide a broad range of top-notch treatment options including spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and reflexology.

Below, the experts discuss the differences between the two treatment options.

Massage Therapy

If you’re suffering from a spasm or strained muscle, massage therapy is an appropriate form of treatment, as it is focused on only the muscles. A masseuse will manipulate the soft tissue to help alleviate pain and promote recovery, as well as use techniques such as Swedish, deep-tissue, and trigger point therapy. Some of the benefits of this therapy include increasing blood flow, reducing anxiety, and improving skin condition. However, unlike a chiropractor, a masseuse is not licensed to adjust the spine or other joints in the body.

Chiropractic Adjustment

A chiropractic adjustment is for issues with the entire spine or musculoskeletal system, including the bones, tendons, and muscle. While you can only see a massage therapist for muscle-related issues, you can see a chiropractor for a spinal adjustment if you’re suffering from ailments like a muscle strain, joint pains, insomnia, or tendonitis. Massage therapy can be used as a supplement to chiropractic care or a warm-up to an adjustment; however, for severe pain, it’s important to seek chiropractic care.

If you’re in need of a chiropractic adjustment or massage therapy, call (907) 262-9171 to book an appointment at West Chiropractic Clinic in Soldotna. You can also visit their website for more information about their comprehensive list of services, including spine alignments and reflexology.