Better Together
Massage + Chiropractic: The Perfect Pair
Should you book a massage or see a chiropractor? If you've been going back and forth, here's what our practitioners have learned from thousands of patient cases: muscle tension and joint misalignment feed each other in a cycle that's hard to break with just one approach. That's why our Metro Detroit clinics offer both services—often scheduled together for maximum benefit.
Why Combining These Treatments Works
Massage therapy and chiropractic care are like two sides of the same coin. Tight muscles can pull joints out of alignment, and misaligned joints cause muscles to tighten in compensation. Breaking this cycle requires addressing both. Massage releases muscle tension to help adjustments "hold" better, while chiropractic care corrects the structural issues that cause muscles to tighten in the first place. Together, they create lasting relief that neither can achieve alone.
Adjustments hold longer: Relaxed muscles don't pull joints back out of alignment
Deeper relaxation: Proper alignment reduces the nerve signals that cause tension
Faster recovery: Soft tissue work accelerates healing after adjustments
Comprehensive pain relief: Addresses both muscular and skeletal sources of pain
Enhanced wellness: Combines structural correction with stress reduction
Conditions That Respond Best to Combined Treatment
Understanding Each Treatment
While we recommend combining these treatments for optimal results, here's what each brings to your treatment plan:
Massage Therapy
Role in combined treatment: Releases muscle tension that can pull joints out of alignment
Focus: Soft tissue manipulation, muscle tension relief, and relaxation
Best For:
Session Length
30-90 minutes*
Typical Frequency
Weekly to monthly*
Chiropractic Care
Role in combined treatment: Addresses structural misalignment that causes chronic muscle tension
Focus: Spinal alignment, joint function, and nervous system optimization
Best For:
Session Length
10 minutes (adjustments), longer for evaluations*
Typical Frequency
1-3 times per week initially*
*Please note: Session lengths, frequency, and treatment plans vary based on each individual's unique needs and condition. At Total Health Systems, we believe in a holistic, personalized approach—your care plan may require more or less treatment depending on your specific situation. During your consultation, our team will create a customized plan tailored just for you.
When Each Treatment May Be Particularly Helpful
These are situations where one treatment might take the lead—but remember, combining both often delivers the best results.
Massage Therapy may take the lead when...
- Your pain is primarily muscular (tight, achy muscles)
- You carry stress in your shoulders and back
- You need recovery after intense physical activity
- You want relaxation along with pain relief
- You have chronic tension headaches
Chiropractic Care may take the lead when...
- Your pain involves joint stiffness or "popping"
- You feel like something is "out of place"
- You have shooting pain or numbness (nerve involvement)
- You recently had an injury affecting your spine
- Your headaches originate from neck issues
Not sure which applies to you? Our team can evaluate your situation and recommend the right combination.
Explore Related Treatment Combinations
Common Questions: Massage Therapy + Chiropractic Care
At Total Health Systems, we coordinate your appointments based on your specific needs.
Chiropractic care reduces pain and optimizes nervous system function, while massage provides the relaxation response. Together, they address stress from multiple angles.
Our team can verify your specific coverage and help coordinate both treatments under your plan.
Ready to Start Your Massage Therapy and Chiropractic Care Treatment?
Don't let pain hold you back. Our expert massage therapy and chiropractic care team is ready to help you feel better today.