How do Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy Complement Each Other?

Both massage therapy and physiotherapy help improve a person’s general well-being. It is how they do that makes the treatments so uniquely different from each other. Massage therapy releases muscle tension and relieves stress. Physiotherapy, on the contrary, reduces chronic musculoskeletal pain and restores optimal mobility. However, physical therapists in Brampton often suggest combining the two treatments for the best outcome. 

Arthritis, for example, is best managed through both physiotherapy and massage therapy. The former improves joint health while the latter improves blood circulation to the affected area. 

There are several other ways massage therapy and physiotherapy complement one another in treating specific conditions. Let’s check them out. 

Benefits of Combining Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy 

Physiotherapy works by strengthening your body. But, our body goes through a lot of wear and tear every day. This results in stiff muscles and joints, stress and a passive healing response. Therapeutic massages relieve stiffness, reduce stress and improve the healing response of the body. It prepares the body to progressively respond to physiotherapy treatments. 

Also Read: Physiotherapy vs. Massage Therapy

Here are four reasons why physical therapists often use massage therapy as a complementary treatment.

Quicker pain management

Therapists combine physiotherapy and massage therapy to reduce chronic pain and prevent further injuries. 

Physiotherapy treatments involve exercises and other hands-on techniques. These help treat the underlying cause of the pain and restore the patient’s mobility. 

Massage therapy involves the application of manual pressure on affected areas. The process breaks down adhesions and collagen fibres, which are responsible for excruciating pain. It also releases muscle tension and relaxes the musculoskeletal system. This relaxation response stimulates the healing capacity of your body, thereby providing long-lasting relief. 

Also read: How Does Massage Therapy Reduce Lower Back Pain?

Improved range of motion 

Pain is often followed by a limited range of motion. Injuries or stiff joints and muscles can take a toll on the normal movement abilities of a person. Other reasons such as swelling of tissues and biomechanical problems in the joints can also cause movement problems. 

Massage therapy helps loosen the affected muscles and relieve the tension within them. Physiotherapy treatments work better on loose muscles. The hands-on manual manipulation technique increases flexibility and movement in the areas that feel stiff. Flexibility is important for physiotherapy treatments to restore mobility. 

Effective mental and physical stress relief 

Physical pain causes mental stress. You may find it difficult to focus on work or perform daily tasks with a peaceful mind. Physiotherapy reduces the pain and massages take care of the mental stress. 

Disturbed mental health can slow down your overall recovery process. It is crucial to have a calm mind so the physiotherapy treatments work effectively on your body. This is where the role of massage therapy comes into play. 

Massages reduce cortisol levels by almost 30%, which is also known as the ‘stress hormone’. It reduces the stress that has built up within your muscles and causes a calming effect on the muscles. 

Better overall health and well-being

The massage therapy session, for instance, improves lymph fluid circulation and regulates nutritional flow throughout the body. Physiotherapy treatments reduce pain and improve your mobility. The combination of both improves your overall health and well-being. 

Consistent sessions of massages and physiotherapy also improve the strength, flexibility and length of your muscles. You find it easier to move them and perform daily activities without pain. 

Wrapping up, 

All in all, you get a comprehensive treatment when the professionals combine massage therapy and physiotherapy. It provides you with the desired health outcome and prevents further injuries. The recovery process accelerates and your body responds better to the holistic treatments. Just make sure you consult with a registered massage therapist or an experienced physiotherapist to make the most of the treatments.