Discover How Massage Can Reduce Pain, Boost Relaxation, and Enhance Your Wellbeing
Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage offers wellness services including massage, chiro, spinal decompression, cold laser therapy, and much more! We care about our patients’ well-being. We are committed to providing quality care to our amazing communities in Northwest Arkansas. We help patients eliminate or reduce pain, increase mobility, and improve daily life! We offer massage therapy or soft tissue therapy sessions in 30 min to 1.5-hour treatments. Massage sessions may include stretching and other techniques or tools to help manipulate your soft tissue and encourage relaxation. Each patient’s massage therapy treatment will vary based on pain, condition, and other factors.
Your licensed massage therapist will discuss your needs before your message to review your pressure preferences, pain areas, zones of sensitivity, and other information to ensure your massage caters to your unique needs. Massages are more effective – if done consistently or on a routine basis. We suggest 1 to 4 massages a month but that varies based on pain areas, conditions, age, and other factors.
Why Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage?
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Experienced and Licensed Massage Therapist
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Committed to Quality Care and Exceptional Service
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Top-Rated Chiropractic, Massage, and Spinal Decompression Services
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Local Small Business and Support and Engagement in Prairie Grove and West Washington County
What is Massage Therapy?
According to the American Massage Therapy Association, approximately 21% of Americans had some form of massage in 2020. Massage therapy or soft tissue therapy is a form of manual therapy that involves moving soft tissue in the body to promote health and well-being. Massage is one of the earliest known therapeutic practices – all the way back to ancient cultures.
Unveiling the Deep Roots of Massage: A Journey Through Time and Cultures
Massage therapy isn't just about a relaxing hour on a massage table. It boasts a rich and diverse history, weaving its way through cultures for thousands of years. This guide delves into the fascinating origins of massage therapy, exploring its influence on healthcare and showcasing its evolution from ancient practices to the present day.
A Global Tapestry of Techniques:
While the exact origin story remains debated, countless civilizations have contributed to the tapestry of massage traditions we know today. Let's embark on a historical journey, exploring the massage practices that blossomed in different regions:
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India (3,000 BCE): India is home to some of the earliest documented evidence of massage, dating back to 3,000 BCE. Massage played a vital role in Ayurveda, a holistic healing system that integrated massage with meditation and aromatherapy.
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China (2,700 BCE): Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese massage techniques emerged around 2,700 BCE. The belief was that imbalances in energy flow caused illness, and massage helped restore harmony within the body. These practices laid the foundation for acupressure and acupuncture, still used today.
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Egypt (2,500 BCE): Egyptian tomb paintings offer glimpses of massage practices dating back thousands of years. They are credited with developing reflexology, the idea that applying pressure to specific points on the hands and feet can benefit other areas of the body.
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Japan (1,000 BCE): Japanese Buddhist monks adopted and adapted Chinese massage techniques. Their version of Tui Na massage evolved into Anma, the precursor to modern Shiatsu massage. Shiatsu, along with Ashiatsu, are popular methods for promoting circulation, relieving stress, and aiding healing.
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Greece (800-500 BCE): Massage therapy's influence extended to Europe, reaching Greece between 800 and 500 BCE. The focus on physical fitness in ancient Greece led to the development of massage techniques for relieving muscle strain and tension, a precursor to modern sports massage.
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Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine (5th Century BCE): A pivotal figure in the history of medicine, Hippocrates prescribed massage to promote healing. His endorsement helped solidify massage therapy as a valuable tool in the Western world.
This glimpse into the past highlights the remarkable journey of massage therapy. From its ancient roots to its diverse applications today, massage therapy continues to be a powerful tool for promoting health and well-being.
What is a licensed massage therapist (LMT)?
According to the State of Arkansas, “Massage therapist” means a person who has: (1) Earned a diploma from a Board-accepted school of massage therapy; (2) Passed an examination required or accepted by the Board; and (3) Become licensed and registered to practice massage therapy. “Massage therapy” means the treatment of soft tissues, which may include skin, fascia, and muscles and their dysfunctions for therapeutic purposes of establishing and maintaining good physical condition, comfort, and relief of pain.
Massage Therapists originate back to colonial days – here are some key milestones in the establishment of, what we call today, a massage therapist. The history of massage therapists in the US can be traced back to the 18th century.
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1700s: "Rubbers," mostly women, used manual techniques to treat orthopedic problems.
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1850s: Medical gymnasts introduced a more scientific approach based on Swedish movement therapy.
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1880s: The terms "masseur" and "masseuse" became common for practitioners trained in European soft-tissue manipulation techniques. Massage became the dominant term for manual therapy.
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Late 1800s: Massage was linked with magnetism, an early form of energy healing. Massage and hydrotherapy were often combined in spa treatments.
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Late 1800s: The familiar full-body massage originated from a treatment for neurasthenia, a condition affecting wealthy women. This increased demand for massage therapists.
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1930s: Swedish massage evolved into a comprehensive physiotherapy system used in hospitals, YMCAs, and private practices.
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1940s: The American Association of Masseuses and Masseurs (AAMM) was established to set standards for the profession.
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1950s & 1960s: AAMM changed its name to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and terms like "massage therapy" and "massage therapist" became more widely used.
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1960s-2000s: The counterculture movement and the rise of alternative medicine led to a wider variety of massage modalities offered by massage therapists.
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1990s-present: Massage therapy became more regulated with many states requiring licensing. Research has helped solidify massage therapy's place in healthcare.
At Prairie Grove Chiropractic, our massage therapists are licensed and experienced in massage therapy. Our massage therapists are skilled in various types of massage styles and pressure options including deep tissue, medium pressure, stretching, Swedish, and Sports to name a few. Prior to your massage, your LMT will discuss your pain areas and levels, sensitive areas, areas to avoid, pressure options, and other related information to make sure your massage is suited to your individual needs. Massages can be scheduled before or after chiropractic appointments and can range between 30-minutes and 1.5-hours. If you have any questions about our massage services, please contact us online or by phone at 479-846-4110.
Why should you have massage therapy?
Routine massages coupled with comprehensive care like chiro or spinal decompression treatment plans can have profound effects on the mind and body. Massage can alleviate a recent issue like tightness or mobility loss but can also help to prevent those from reoccurring in the future. With the right treatment plan, massages help patients feel calmer and more relaxed, have improved flexibility, and reduced chronic pain.
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Forty-two percent of all massage consumers got their last massage for health and wellness reasons. When combined with chiropractic treatments, massage is a powerful tool to help you feel better faster.
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29 percent of consumers had a massage for pain relief and pain management in the 12 months ending June 2023.
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Pain is the leading reason people visit doctors, accounting for roughly 80% of appointments. This has led to a surge in complementary therapies like massage therapy, due to factors like: widespread pain, limited effectiveness of traditional pain treatments, and a desire for a more holistic approach to healthcare. Massage therapy, a popular complementary therapy, involves manipulating soft tissues to reduce pain and discomfort.
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Studies show that integrating massage therapy into hospital care can effectively help patients manage both the physical and emotional challenges of pain. While not entirely risk-free, massage therapy is generally considered a safe and effective treatment with minimal side effects. This makes it an attractive option for many people seeking pain relief and improved well-being.
Our Locations:
Prairie Grove Chiropractic
114 N Pittman Street
Prairie Grove, AR 72753
Phone: (479) 846-4110
Hours:
Tuesday and Friday
9:00 am to 12:00 pm
2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
The Wellness Center
1271 Steamboat Dr., #1
Fayetteville, AR 72704
Phone: (479) 435-6834
Hours:
Monday through Friday:
9:00 am to 12:00 pm
2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
1st Saturday of each Month:
9:00 am to 1:00 pm
What are the benefits of massage?
There are numerous health and wellness reasons for having regular massages. According to Mayo Clinic, Massage isn't just about feeling good in the moment. It offers a range of benefits that contribute to your overall well-being. One of the key ways massage helps is by lowering cortisol levels, the stress hormone. High cortisol can worsen pain, anxiety, and even depression. By reducing cortisol, massage promotes a calmer state and improves your body's ability to fight off these negative feelings.
Massage also triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter known as the happy chemical. This natural mood elevator can help combat feelings of depression and anxiety, leaving you feeling more positive and relaxed. Massage can be seen as a form of extended, comforting touch, similar to a hug. This can fulfill a basic human need for physical connection and provide a safe, nurturing space to relax and de-stress.
Overall, massage offers a powerful combination of physical and emotional benefits, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and boosting your mood.
Here are physical and emotional benefits of massage therapy:
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Less Pain and Soreness
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Better Sleep
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Reduced Anxiety
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Decreased Joint Inflammation
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Lower Stress Levels
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Improved Relaxation
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Relieve Constipation
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Reduce Muscle Tension
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Improve Mobility and Flexibility
The 30 minute massage lasts 20 minutes with 5 minutes of time before and after the massage for dressing and related.
30 Minute Massage
1.5 Hour Massage
Our longer massage is great for patients that need extra time to de-stress. This massage session lasts 1.5 hours (1 hour 50 minute massage with 5 minutes of time before and after the massage for dressing and related).
At Prairie Grove Chiropractic, we offer 3 massage therapy durations. Our most popular massage is the 1 hour massage. The 1 hour massage lasts 50 minutes with 5 minutes of time before and after the massage for dressing and related.
1 Hour Massage
Who needs a massage?
Soft tissue therapy has numerous benefits, and most people can benefit from the powerful effects of routine massage therapy including people who:
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Sit for long periods such as for transportation, driving, deliveries, or commutes
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Sit at a desk
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Uses hands, feet, or limbs for repetitive tasks
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Perform hours of work from a computer
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Operate heavy equipment or machinery
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Experience stress, anxiety, or depression
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Have nerve pain
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Are diagnosed with fibromyalgia
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Deal with muscle tightness or tension
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Are pregnant
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Suffer from TMJ
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Have insomnia or trouble sleeping
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Experience digestive issues
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Suffer from sports or soft tissue injuries
Revive, refresh, and renew! Are you stressed? We can help - Schedule a massage today!
Tailoring Your Massage Experience: Pressure Options at Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage
At Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage, we understand that everyone's preference for massage pressure is unique. That's why we offer a variety of pressure options to customize your experience and achieve your desired outcome.
Relax and Rejuvenate:
Light Pressure: This gentle touch is perfect for relaxation massages like Swedish massage. Light strokes and kneading techniques help increase blood flow and stimulate nerve endings, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Alleviate Tension:
Medium Pressure: For those seeking a firmer touch, medium pressure applies more focused strokes and deeper compression. This can be beneficial for addressing muscle tension and promoting overall relaxation.
Target Deep Issues:
Strong Pressure: Our experienced massage therapists can also provide a deep tissue massage using strong pressure and potentially incorporating trigger point therapy. This targeted approach can be very effective in relieving chronic pain and muscle knots. More on deep tissue massage below. We encourage you to communicate your pressure preferences during your consultation. Our therapists will work with you to create a personalized massage experience that meets your specific needs and goals.
Customize Your Massage Experience
At Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage, we offer a variety of massage types to meet our patients' needs. We review some of the massage styles below.
Deep Tissue
What is it?
Deep tissue massage targets the deep layers of connective tissue (facia) and muscles and is designed to aid in the release of tension and pain. It utilizes firm press and specialized strokes to focus on knots and tight muscles. This technique is not always as relaxing as some massage techniques as significant pressure and friction on the affected areas is often needed.
Who created it?
Therese Phimmer is usually credited with deep tissue massage development. She was a Canadian physiotherapist and created the technique in the mid-20th century. However, there is some evidence that ancient Egyptians and Grecians practiced deep-tissue massage.
Why it was created?
Therese Phimmer initially created the technique for personal use, as she was experiencing paralysis in her legs and this method helped her to regain function and mobility. She shared her findings in the book “Muscles: Your Invisible Bonds” (1949). Her findings increased the popularity of this technique and validated its therapeutic value.
Conditions that may help:
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Chronic muscle tension and pain
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Sports injuries (strains, tears)
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Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
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Poor posture
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Reduced flexibility and range of motion
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Headaches (tension headaches)
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Fibromyalgia
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Plantar fasciitis
Who is it for?
Anyone experiencing chronic pain, muscle tightness, or movement limitations would benefit from deep tissue massage, in addition to athletes, and those with desk jobs.
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Pain and tension reduction: Deep pressure targets knots and tight muscles, alleviating pain and discomfort.
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Circulation improvement: Promotion of healing and reduced inflammation is initiated due to increased blood flow
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Flexibility and range of motion enhancement: Increased movement is experienced as the tight muscles and fascia relax and loosen.
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Improved posture: Better posture can be achieved by concentrating on muscle imbalances.
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Reduction of stress: By releasing muscle tension, a feeling of relaxation can be achieved.
It is important to be aware that deep tissue massage can be very intense and even uncomfortable at times. It is important to inform your therapist of pain levels and continue to communicate with them throughout the treatment regarding the massage intensity. Occasionally deep tissue massage therapy can cause soreness and bruising.
Lymphatic Drainage
What is it?
Lymphatic drainage massage of massage focuses on the elimination of waste and toxins from your lymphatic system. The gentle massage process, also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), moves the lymph fluid throughout your tissues to reduce blockages, stagnation, and swelling in the body.
Who created it?
Dr Emil Vodder, a Danish physiotherapist, and his wife, Estrid Vodder, developed this massage method in the 1930s.
Why they created it?
Dr Emil Vodder had clients who experienced swelling in their lymphatic system which was accompanied various medical conditions. His intuition told him that if he unblocked the lymph nodes, that their health could improve and be restored, and his hunch was correct for lymphatic syndrome.
Conditions it may help:
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Lymphedema: This is the primary use of MLD. It can help reduce swelling caused by a blockage or stagnation in the lymphatic system, often a side effect of cancer surgery or injury.
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Other conditions: MLD may also offer some relief from symptoms of chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic venous insufficiency, and lipedema.
Most anyone can benefit from MLD for relaxation and potentially improved circulation, it's most beneficial for those with:
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Lymphedema
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Fluid retention
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Chronic pain
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Post-surgical swelling
Benefits: MDL can improve conditions related to a blocked lymphatic system.
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Swelling Reduction: The main benefit is the decrease of swelling caused by stagnated lymph fluid, especially in cases of lymphedema.
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Circulation Improvement: MLD aids in waste removal and the delivery of nutrients in the body, thus improving overall circulation.
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Relaxation: This gentle massage technique promotes relaxation
Important to note:
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It's important to consult with a healthcare professional prior to receiving MLD, especially if you have any underlying health conditions including a heart condition, kidney failure, blood clots, or infection.
Swedish Massage
What is it?
Swedish Massage is the most common style of massage practiced. The massage can include techniques such as kneading, stroking, vibration, and tapping to reduce muscle spasms and relax the muscles, improve blood flow, and promote overall well-being
Who created it?
Swedish-style massage was developed by Dr. Per Henrik Ling in the early 1800s. It was his goal to create a system of movement to improve health.
Why it was created?
Dr Ling had an elbow injury and he cured it by using percussion strokes in the injured area. Later he developed the other massage strokes that are practiced today. Doctors George and Charles Taylor brought the technique to the United States in the 1850s.
Conditions it may help:
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Muscle tension and pain
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Stress and anxiety
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Headaches
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Improved circulation
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Increased range of motion
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Improved sleep
Who is it for?
Just about everyone can benefit from a Swedish Massage as it is a great stress reliever, is highly relaxing, and can decrease muscle tension and spasms.
Benefits:
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Relaxation and stress relief
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Improved circulation
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Reduced muscle tension and pain
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Increased flexibility and range of motion
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Improved sleep quality
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Enhanced sense of well-being
Stretching Massage
What is it?
A stretching massage combines both standard massage therapy techniques with assisted stretching techniques incorporated into the session. The aim of this type of massage is to increase flexibility and range of motion, in addition to promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and reducing pain.
Who created it?
There is no single creator for stretching massages, but there is evidence that massage was used in Egypt and China thousands of years ago.
Conditions it may help:
The main goals of stretching massages are to loosen tight muscles and increase flexibility. The massage therapist may do pre-massage stretches prior to applying deeper massage techniques or may integrate the stretches throughout the massage session to target specific muscle restrictions. At the conclusion of the massage, it is not uncommon for the therapist to suggest various stretches to maintain flexibility.
Benefits of Stretching Massage:
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Increased flexibility and range of motion: This technique, due to the combination of stretching and massage, can achieve a deeper stretch and improve overall flexibility.
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Reduced muscle tension and pain: The assisted stretching elongates muscles while massage relaxes the muscles, which can ideally reduce pain and discomfort.
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Improved circulation: Blood flow to muscles and organs is enhanced with stretching massages. The increased blood flow then increases healing and recovery of muscles and improves overall health.
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Enhanced relaxation and well-being: This multifaceted technique can reduce stress and promote a feeling of well-being and calm.
Who is it for?
Stretching massages can be beneficial for just about anyone looking to reduce muscle tension, gain flexibility, improve athletic performance, and reduce stress.
Sports Massage
What is it?
Sports Massage is designed to improve the performance of athletes, help avoid injuries, and help the athletes recover from their sports activities and competitions. Sports massage can be done before, during, and after exercise. It combines numerous massage techniques that can include stretching, compression of muscles, targeting pressure points, range of motion movements, and stroking of the affected areas. Its purpose is to stretch and relax tendons, ligaments, and the connective tissues surrounding the muscles and organs (fascia) and decrease muscle spasms. Sports massage is designed to help the athlete recover more quickly from their sports activities.
Who created it and why?
The history of Sports Massage can be traced all the way back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. However, in the 1924 Paris Olympic games Paavo Nurmi, a 5-time gold medalist, used massage between events. Up until this time, it was unheard of to have a massage therapist work on an athlete. This brought a sports massage into focus as it helped improve his performance and decrease recovery time from sports exertion. Jack Meagher, the author of “Sports Massage”, the current-day bible of sports massage, brought this therapy to the forefront in the U.S.A.
Conditions it may help - the following conditions can benefit from a sports massage:
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Muscle soreness and tightness
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Muscle strains and tears
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Joint pain
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Tendinitis
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Bursitis
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Shin splints
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Lower back pain
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Increased flexibility and range of motion
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Improved circulation
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Reduced inflammation
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Faster recovery from workouts and injuries
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Improved sleep quality
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Reduced stress and anxiety
Who is it for?
Sports massage is not only for elite athletes but for the weekend warriors and the average sports enthusiast. Sport and physical activity can take a toll on the body, regardless of your athletic status and sports massage can help you continue to stay active and rebound faster. Even those recovering from injuries or chronic pain conditions can feel the benefits of sports massage.
Benefits of the style:
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Prevent common conditions that occur with exercise such as sore muscles and muscle tension, also known as delayed onset muscle soreness.
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Aids in the recovery from physical activity and sports injuries
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Improve athletic performance
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Increase blood and lymph flow
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Stress reduction
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Decrease sports recovery time
Prenatal Massage
What is it?
This specialized massage technique is designed to address the unique needs and discomforts of pregnancy. It uses gentle massage techniques and positioning during the prenatal massage.
Who created it?
It is not known who created prenatal massage, but the origins have been traced back to ancient texts of Ayurveda medicine (India) from thousands of years ago.
Why was it created?
It was most likely developed to provide comfort to pregnant women and deal with common pregnancy discomforts.
Conditions it may help:
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Back pain
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Muscle tension
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Leg cramps
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Edema (swelling)
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Stress and anxiety
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Heartburn
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Morning sickness
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Varicose veins
Who is it for?
Prenatal massage is specifically designed for pregnant women.
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Reduction of muscle tension and pain: Back, leg, and other aches and pains are common during pregnancy. Prenatal massage can help ease tension and discomfort.
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Improved well-being: Massage can reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation.
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Edema reduction: This gentle massage technique can improve circulation, eliminate toxins, and assist with swelling, which is common with pregnancy.
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Improved sleep: Better quality sleep is common due to the relaxing qualities of massage.
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Reduces headaches: Prenatal massage can alleviate tension which can result in headaches
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Mother-baby bonding: Provides a time for relaxation and connection with your child.
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Potential for reduced labor pains: Some studies have found that prenatal massage may decrease the time in labor and reduce its intensity.
Important note: It is always wise to consult your doctor before receiving prenatal massages, especially if you have underlying health concerns. There are a few contraindications to prenatal massage, and they include:
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Pre-eclampsia
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Deep vein thrombosis
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Placenta Problems
To book a massage, book online or call us.
Who should not have a massage?
Massage therapy offers a wealth of benefits, but it's not always a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Spencer emphasizes the importance of discussing your health history before a massage to ensure it's safe and effective for you. Certain medical conditions can make massage inadvisable. For example, circulatory massage could strain an already struggling heart or kidneys.
Similarly, a recent injury might need time to heal on its own, and massage could hinder that process.
Medications can also play a role:
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Blood thinners: Deep tissue massage or heavy pressure could increase your risk of bruising.
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Blood pressure medications: You might experience dizziness after a massage due to low blood pressure.
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Topical medications: Massage can spread topical creams, potentially reducing their effectiveness or interfering with absorption.
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Injectable medications: Avoid massage near injection sites, as it could affect medication absorption.
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Muscle relaxers: The therapist might avoid static stretches to prevent overstretching relaxed muscles.
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Pain relievers: If you can't provide clear feedback on pain during the massage, a lighter pressure approach might be best.
Open Communication is Key:
We will discuss your health openly to determine the most suitable technique and whether massage is appropriate for you on that particular day. Patients shouldn't hesitate to request a doctor or consultation if they have concerns about how massage might interact with your health.
Massage and You:
While there are some situations where massage might not be advisable, Dr. Spencer reassures us that these are relatively rare and usually temporary. The key is to understand potential issues and talk to your therapist beforehand to ensure a safe and beneficial experience.
Our Services:
At Prairie Grove Chiropractic and Massage, we offer massage and other services to help our patients get back to living! We work with our patients to reduce pain, improve mobility, and address underlying conditions. We are committed to quality care and service. We are a top-rated chiropractor and care about our patients’ health and wellness. Every patient has unique needs, so the care plan and services will vary by patient.
We offer personalized care plans featuring chiropractic adjustments, massage, and other therapies to help you move better, feel better, and live a more active life. Here is a list of our services:
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Chiropractic care focuses on manual spinal adjustments to improve overall health based on the belief that the body can naturally heal itself.
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Spinal adjustments, a technique used by various healthcare professionals to relieve pain and improve spinal flexibility, involve applying controlled force or rhythmic movements to specific joints.
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Massage therapy or applying pressure and movements to soft tissues has a long history and encompasses various techniques.
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Non-surgical spinal decompression uses motorized traction to gently stretch the spine, potentially relieving back pain by creating negative pressure to retract bulging discs and promote healing.
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The Activator Method is a chiropractic technique using a handheld instrument for precise, low-force adjustments to the spine, which are often combined with manual techniques.
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The diversified technique, the most common chiropractic method, uses quick thrusts to realign the spine and improve joint mobility, addressing pain, and dysfunction.
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Cold laser therapy, using low-powered lasers to deliver light and potentially stimulate cellular changes, is a treatment option for pain management.
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Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts created by a chiropractor to address your specific foot and alignment needs.
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Electronic stimulation, using electrical currents to induce muscle contractions, is a chiropractic technique targeting specific areas for pain relief or muscle strengthening.
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Kinesio tape, applied by chiropractors, offers support, improves movement, and aids injury prevention or recovery for various aches and pains.
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Chiropractors use corrective exercises, combining physical therapy and fitness elements, to address muscle and bone imbalances contributing to pain and improve overall function.
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Prairie Grove Chiropractic goes beyond adjustments, we also offer nutritional guidance and supplements for a holistic approach to well-being.
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And other services or tools to help patients get back to living life to the fullest!
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