Massage Guns Vs Chiropractic: What is Better for Back Pain Relief

According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, in 2021, Metro Manila had the highest reported cases of work-related diseases and injuries. Regarding injuries, back pain is on top with 19.2%, followed by neck-shoulder pain with 5.2%. 

Because of this need, Manila dwellers often turn to chiropractors to address their ailments. However, those who are low funds often turn to massage guns–portable devices–that vibrate at a high frequency and low amplitude of movement. According to the National Library of Medicine, they can be beneficial when it comes to improving short-term range of motion, flexibility, and recovery-related outcomes.

Simply put, chiropractic care as well as massage guns can be a worthwhile combination for addressing back pain and other similar conditions. To make the most of them, it is best to understand how they work and when each is appropriate.

Chiropractic treatment: A closer look

Chiropractic is a popular and effective treatment for managing back pain. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, including spinal manipulation, adjustments, and soft tissue therapy, to alleviate pain, improve function, and promote healing in the back.

Here’s how the said holistic approach can help alleviate back pain: 

Reduces pain and inflammation

Compressed nerves that are often caused by injury, aging, poor posture, and so forth, can prompt the brain to send pain signals to different parts of the body. This may result in the development of back pain. The pressure can also prompt surrounding muscles to accumulate tension and spasm, restricting blood flow in the said region. As straightforward as it may seem, this can cause inflammation since blood circulation is drastically hampered. 

This is where doctors of chiropractic come in. They utilize their hands or specialized tools to apply force to the vertebrae, which shifts it back to a healthier alignment.

Enhances spinal alignment

Spinal misalignments, also called subluxations, are some of the primary contributors to back pain. Chiropractors use personalized adjustments to restore alignment. Bear in mind that no two spines are exactly alike since conditions vary from one person to another, depending on their body structure, injury history, body structure, and so on. 

A highly knowledgeable practitioner can start with an extensive assessment to determine the current state of the spine. This can help identify which part of the spine needs to be adjusted and develop a plan that can restore alignment, reduce pain, and improve body functions.

Restores joint mobility

Chiropractic can restore mobility to the spinal joints, which can help with back pain management. This development allows the spine to bend and twist in an efficient manner. The goal of the said holistic treatment is to restore proper alignment as well as movement. By properly manipulating the joints, a doctor of chiropractic can help loosen restrictions and stimulate the joints to move through their full range of motion. This can lead to reduced stiffness, less pain, and improved flexibility.

How massage guns work

Massage guns have gained popularity as a tool for managing back pain and other similar ailments. Read on to find out how the said devices work when it comes to dealing pain and discomfort. 

Breaks up muscle adhesions

When the back muscles are overworked or injured, their fibers form knots or adhesions. They can restrict movement and cause pain. This is where massage guns come in handy. They produce just the right amount of pressure to break down the said adhesions and relax the muscles. Allowing them to function at an optimum level.

In addition, pulses from massage guns can have a positive effect on muscle tissue. This is because the said device can reach deep into the muscle tissue. Affecting not just the surface but the deeper layers where adhesions form. This is important because adhesions can be deep-seated and difficult to reach with manual pressure.

Reduces muscle soreness and stiffness

Massage guns can reduce soreness and stiffness of the muscles, including back pain. They work by stimulating blood flow and breaking down muscle knots thanks to their percussion therapy features. Because of these, they are ideal tools for those who sit for extended hours or extensively workout. 

To add, when massage guns stimulate lower back muscles prior to work, patients are basically giving their back a warm up. This allows more oxygen to certain muscle groups, which allows them to relax easily. 

Prevents Fatigue 

Muscle fatigue takes place when the muscles are overworked. When this happens, it can reduce their capacity to function. This condition can lead to shorter workouts, and in worse case scenarios, lead to injuries and other similar ailments. A study on non-athletic males found out that massage therapy may reduce or even prevent the development of muscle fatigue. Furthermore, researchers determined that various massage gun settings can prolong or even prevent the onset of muscle fatigue. 

Chiropractic Vs massage guns

While massage guns can provide temporary relief, it can be said that they are no match for the effectiveness and efficiency of the treatment that chiropractors can bring. Bear in mind that the said healthcare professionals underwent extensive training to achieve the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver lasting results. 

It can be said that chiropractic treatment is the clear choice. For patients who are dealing with pain or dysfunction, over-the-counter gadgets in the mold of massage guns should be the second choice, rather than the other way around.

Visit us at Posture Perfect Chiropractor

If you are ready to experience the difference that professional, holistic doctors can make, it’s time to visit a doctor of chiropractic in Manila. Don’t settle for temporary band-aid solutions like massage guns. Invest in pain relief and your overall well-being by booking an appointment with Posture Perfect Chiropractic. Your body will thank you for it.

Book an appointment now.