Muscle pain is one of the most common issues people experience with their bodies due to muscle strain and fatigue, high-intensity activities, and repetitive motions. While it is a common problem, it is not something that has to be normal. Muscle pain can prohibit people from enjoying their daily activities or even accomplishing simple tasks.
Let’s dig into what exactly causes pain in the muscles and why chiropractic care and physical therapy are some of the best ways to treat muscle pain.
What is Muscle Pain?
Muscle pain can range from mild to severe and may affect one or multiple muscles in the body. The pain can stem from various causes, including overexertion during physical activity, muscle strain or injury, tension or stress, poor posture, repetitive movements, and underlying medical conditions such as fibromyalgia or infections like influenza or Lyme disease.
Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications can also contribute to muscle pain. In many cases, muscle pain is temporary and resolves with treatments like stretching, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, persistent or severe muscle pain may require medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Why Is Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy Used to Treat Muscle Pain?
A combination of chiropractic care and physical therapy can provide the best benefits for muscle pain or muscle spasms compared to physical therapy alone or relying solely on medication.
Here’s why this combination approach can be advantageous:
1. Addressing the Root Cause
Chiropractic care focuses on identifying and correcting spinal misalignments that can contribute to muscle pain or spasms. By aligning the spine, chiropractic adjustments can help improve nerve function and restore proper communication between the brain and muscles. This can address the underlying cause of muscle pain or spasms, leading to long-term relief and reduced reliance on medication.
2. Enhanced Musculoskeletal Function
Chiropractic care can enhance musculoskeletal function by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and promoting proper alignment. When combined with exercises stretching and massage and other pain relieving modalities, chiropractic adjustments can help optimize the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process. This can lead to improved muscle strength, flexibility, and overall function.
3. Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Combining chiropractic care with therapy creates a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the structural and functional aspects of muscle pain or spasms. At our office we use therapy to focus on strengthening and stretching muscles, while chiropractic care focuses on optimizing spinal alignment and nervous system function. By addressing both aspects, the treatment approach becomes more well-rounded and can provide better overall results.
4. Individualized Treatment
With a combination approach, chiropractic care and therapy can be tailored to your specific needs and goals. As healthcare professionals, we can assess your condition, consider your preferences, and develop a personalized treatment plan that combines the benefits of both modalities. This individualized approach can optimize your chances of achieving the best possible outcomes for your muscle pain or spasms.
5. Reduced Reliance on Medication
Medication is often helpful to relieve symptoms, especially in the initial phases of care. By addressing the underlying cause of muscle pain or spasms and promoting natural healing, chiropractic care can help reduce the need for medication. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer to minimize their reliance on pain medications or are concerned about potential side effects.
By incorporating chiropractic care into your treatment plan, you may be able to reduce or even eliminate the need for medication. It is important to consult with a well-qualified, open-minded healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific muscle pain or spasms.
Types of Exercises to Relieve Muscle Pain
Chiropractors often recommend exercises to relieve muscle pain and improve musculoskeletal function. These exercises typically focus on strengthening and stretching specific muscle groups to enhance flexibility, stability, and overall mobility. Common exercises prescribed by chiropractors may include:
- Neck stretches: Gentle stretches to alleviate tension in the neck muscles.
- Shoulder rolls: Rotating the shoulders to release tension and improve mobility.
- Hamstring stretches: Stretching the back of the thighs to alleviate tightness.
- Calf stretches: Stretching the calf muscles to reduce tension and improve flexibility.
- Core strengthening exercises: Including planks, bridges, and pelvic tilts to support the spine and improve posture.
- Stability exercises: Using stability balls or balance boards to improve balance and coordination.
- Low-impact aerobic activities: Such as walking, swimming, or cycling to improve cardiovascular health and promote circulation.
- Corrective exercises: Targeting postural imbalances or movement dysfunctions to address underlying causes of muscle pain.
Choose Grant Chiropractic
Dr. Grant, our Chiropractic physician, understands the balance and need for traditional medical care combined with more natural and holistic treatment options. He can assess your condition, consider your medical history, and recommend the best course of action that may include a combination of chiropractic care and functional therapy and referral to other medical providers when indicated. Contact us today to request an appointment and get started on your journey of feeling better and relieving muscle pain.