That's The Spot! Why Deep Tissue Massage Works When Everything Else Doesn't
Chiropractors are really good at what they do. Still, your chiropractor might refer you to a massage therapist that does deep tissue massage. Why? Because there seventy-seven back muscles in three layers.
Your chiropractor treats your spine and some of the muscles in the first layer. If you are experiencing pain and tightness in the second or deepest layers, it makes a chiropractor's work rather difficult. So, he/she sends you to a massage therapist to reduce some of the pain and stiffness so that your chiropractor can position you and make your spinal adjustments more effective. Here is more on how deep tissue massage works when most everything else does not.
It Takes Trained Hands to Feel the Deepest Muscle Layer
In spite of the training that chiropractors receive, it takes additional training and a good sense of touch to feel the deepest muscle layer. Massage therapists that can feel this layer of tissue can really put the rub into it to get it to relax. It will be painful at first, especially if you are experiencing some back pain there, but after a few treatments, it will feel really good.
The Deep Tissue Layer Keeps You Standing Erect
The deep muscle tissues in your back are responsible for keeping you erect. If they are tight and painful, you will sit or walk hunched over. The therapist works just these muscles to relieve the pain, and then the chiropractor works the spine so that you can finally stand upright. Continued treatments or maintenance treatments prevent your deep muscles and spine from reverting back to a painful, tight position.
Easier Manipulation of the Spine Helps Restore Wellness to Your Back
When your chiropractor can manipulate your spine easier, your spinal column is restored to a healthier state. The deep muscles all connect to six vertebrae in your lower to mid-back. Loosening them up with deep tissue massage means that your back has less pain. You can do anything from roll into a ball to laying face down without screaming in agony while you receive a chiropractic adjustment. The massage therapy makes the whole process easier on you, and easier on your chiropractor who is trying to help.
No More Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants target these deep muscles in your back. That is why they are so overpowering. They may relax the muscles so you hurt less, but then you are also unable to move or walk. The massage therapy loosens the muscles too, but you can still get up and walk away from the therapy table and the chiropractic table with little to no help.