Massage or Chiropractor First?

Generally, it is better to go to a massage therapist first.

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your muscles or soft tissue, a massage therapist may be the best place to start. Massage therapy helps to relax and loosen tight muscles, remove knots (adhesions), increase blood flow, and reduce pain and discomfort. When the muscles are loosened and not tight and in spasm anymore, it will be easier for your chiropractor to make adjustments and realign your spine / joints.

There are times when stiff and tight muscles (due to injury, disease, posture, etc.) pull on the joints and cause them to misalign.

In some instances, muscle pain caused by muscle spasm, is being caused by misaligned joints. The muscles go into spasm in order to stabilize the joint. Even in this case, it is still a good idea to get massage therapy to relax the muscles that are in spasm, and then proceed to a chiropractor to realign your spine/joints.

It is always best to consult with a medical doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.