(Currently offered only at our Dunwoody clinic)
What Massage Therapy Is
Massage therapy is the skilled, hands-on manipulation of soft tissues- muscles, fascia, tendons, and ligaments- performed by a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT). Using flowing Swedish strokes, focused deep-tissue work, or targeted sports and prenatal techniques, the therapist loosens tight fibers, boosts circulation, and coaxes the nervous system out of “fight-or-flight” and into a calming repair mode. Each session is tailored to your pressure preference and health goals, whether that’s pure relaxation, faster athletic recovery, or relief from nagging knots and tension headaches.
*Massage also happens to be chiropractic care’s perfect partner. When stiff muscles tug on misaligned joints, even the best adjustment can slip back out of position; on the other end of the spectrum, when a vertebra is stuck, nearby muscles clamp down to protect it and create knots. By releasing those protective spasms and flushing out inflammatory by-products, massage makes joints easier to adjust and helps the realignment “hold” longer. Meanwhile, an adjustment restores normal joint glide, so freshly relaxed muscles can re-lengthen instead of immediately splinting again. This one-two combination accelerates healing, deepens pain relief, and lets both therapies deliver results that neither could achieve as effectively on their own.
How Massage Therapy Works
During massage, rhythmic pressure and guided stretching boost local circulation, bringing oxygen-rich blood to tired tissues while sweeping away inflammation. Slow, sustained strokes activate the parasympathetic nervous system (your built-in relaxation gear) lowering cortisol and heart rate. Deeper trigger-point or myofascial techniques release stubborn knots that limit range of motion, and specialized styles like prenatal or sports massage address the unique demands of pregnancy or athletic training. The overall effect is a three-way win: mechanical (improved tissue glide), neurological (rebalanced muscle tone), and biochemical (reduced pain-signaling chemicals).
What Massage Therapy Treats
Massage therapy shines wherever muscle tension, poor circulation, or stress amplify your discomfort. Common conditions we see are:
- Tension headaches and tech-neck tightness
- Low-back strain and sciatica
- Post-workout soreness or scar tissue stiffness
- Prenatal aches (round-ligament pull, swollen ankles)
- Stress-related tightness and fatigue
- Chronic issues such as fibromyalgia, TMJ, and mild arthritis
But at the end of the day, most everyone loves a wholesome massage with a detail-focused massage therapist. Our LMTs shine brightly because they have access to the same medical records as our Doctors, so we never have to start from “square one”. They simply continue taking care of you as our patient!
Frequency of Treatments
Your ideal rhythm depends on goals and lifestyle:
High-stress or athletic performance
Weekly or bi-weekly visits keep muscles supple and nervous-system stress low during demanding seasons of life.
General wellness & posture care
A maintenance massage every 4-6 weeks sustains flexibility and prevents small knots from becoming painful trigger points.
Relaxation sessions
Listening to your body is the best tool for knowing when to book a massage. These sessions cater more towards relaxation and de-stressing.
Because massage effects accumulate, we’ll reassess after each block of four sessions and taper off (or increase) treatments based on how your body responds.
What to Expect
Before
You’ll share health history with us, current concerns, and preferred pressure. Your licensed therapist uses that information to craft a customized plan that puts your recovery and relaxation at the forefront of the session.
During
In a private, dimly lit room you’ll disrobe to comfort level (full draping used throughout) and settle onto a heated table. Lotions are used to reduce skin friction while calming essential-oil aromas encourage deep breathing. Even in its tranquil setting, communication is always encouraged to remain open through the session when pressure, temperature, or positioning can be adjusted for patient comfort.
After
Post-massage you may feel loose-limbed and slightly flushed as circulation increases. Drinking extra water, doing gentle mobility exercises we demonstrate, and taking a warm Epsom-salt bath that evening all extend the benefits. Mild soreness- like finishing a good workout- usually fades within 24 hours, replaced by a pleasant ease of movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it hurt?
Therapeutic work may reveal tender spots, but discomfort should always feel productive, never sharp. We scale pressure in real time and can switch to gentler techniques the instant you ask.
Do I have to undress completely?
No. Many clients wear undergarments or wear athletic shorts for identical sessions. Your comfort dictates attire, and professional draping ensures modesty at all times.
How long before I notice results?
Stress relief is immediate for most. Pain and mobility improvements often appear after the first session, with cumulative gains over three to four visits.
Can massage replace my chiropractic adjustment?
They’re complementary, not competing. Massage softens the muscles that pull joints out of line; adjustments realign the joints that keep muscles balanced. Together they create longer-lasting change toward a healthier you.
Is massage safe during pregnancy or with medical conditions?
Yes, with proper modifications. Our prenatal bolster system lets expectant mothers lie face-down comfortably, and we adapt pressure for osteoporosis, diabetes, or recent surgeries. Always share your health history and concerns so we can tailor safely.
Will insurance cover massage therapy?
Some health plans, HSAs, and auto-injury claims reimburse therapeutic massage when prescribed. Our front desk can verify coverage and discuss affordable package rates if you’re paying out of pocket.
Massage therapy relieves tension, restores mobility, and deepens the benefits of chiropractic care.
