Physical Therapy or Massage Therapy – What Do I Need?
Physical therapy and massage therapy have the same goal – to restore muscle strength and relieve pain. Both of the therapies use soft tissue manipulation to help treat the condition and release the stress within muscles. Sometimes, people are in a dilemma as to which one to choose for their condition. No doubt both of the therapies can give you rewarding results. But, you should know that each one is apt for certain conditions. In this article, we’ll highlight when and in what conditions you require physiotherapy and massage therapy.
Conditions Where Physical Therapy Benefits
Headache Caused Due to Posture Problem
Most of you may not be aware that sometimes headache may be related to an issue in your neck, upper back, or your posture. Your physiotherapist can determine the problem area and treat it with techniques and exercises to ensure you never suffer a headache because of it.
Problems Caused Due to Obesity
In some cases, obesity and fatness causes the body to become inactive after a point of time. Physical therapy can help lose weight through exercise programs, so that that your body muscles don’t become stressed and immobile. Physical therapy also includes strengthening exercises that helps treat any secondary aches and pains that occurs due to obesity.
Lumbar Disc Injuries
Lower back or lumbar disc injuries is the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions. Lower back pain is the leading cause why most of the people give up their work and other critical activities in life. Most of the types of lumbar disc injuries are treated with the help of physiotherapy. Physical therapy helps you deal with the pain and gradually treats the condition and improves mobility in the area.
Conditions Where Massage Therapy Benefits
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Excessive strain on your body and occasional wrong sleeping positions can put the wrist into an awkward position for extended periods. In this condition, where your tendons and nerves are compressed, you may experience tingling pain and weakness in your arms and hands. Massage therapy uses postural correction techniques and reduces tension in muscles, thereby relieving pain in the area.
Muscle Strains
Lifting something heavy or while playing sports can result in pressure on your muscles, leading to small muscle tears. This results in bruising, swelling, and weakness of your muscle. Applying ice pack on the affected area can reduce the swelling and pain. But, massage therapy can relieve you permanantly of such muscle strains. With gentle strokes and techniques, massage therapy helps release tensions by focusing on improving circulation in the area.
Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)
RSIs includes conditions like Thoracic Outlet Syndrome that can occur while indulging in strenuous workout or being in a posture for long hours. For instance during work or while playing sports. Mechanical compression and extended hours at work can contribute to the development of RSIs. Rest and medication help to alleviate symptoms. But, massage therapy helps patients to create a self-care plan that can include stretching or strengthening exercises. This helps improve blood circulation in the area, releasing the stress and promoting mobility and flexibility.
Massage therapy and physiotherapy are considered an important part of preventive care programs. With proper diet and exercise, massage and physical therapy prove to be beneficial not only for injury rehabilitation, but also for preventive care. If you are suffering chronic pain and unable to get relief, then consult a physiotherapist to help you out.
