Clinical Massage Therapy: What’s the Difference?

You feel it in your muscles, they are achy and you move with stiffness. Your activities leave you with body aches the rest of the day. Are you dealing with muscle pain, reduced mobility, or chronic discomfort? Should you choose Clinical manual soft tissue therapy (massage) or find a physical therapist, or maybe find a chiropractor?

Choosing between clinical massage therapy, physical therapy, or chiropractic care can seem daunting. Understanding the key differences among these treatments can guide you toward the right decision.

At Return to Play Institute (RTPI), we focus on clinical massage therapy, also known as manual soft tissue therapy (MSTT). As part of your overall care, we will often collaborate with chiropractors and physical therapists when a more comprehensive approach is necessary. This team-based approach allows us to address a broader spectrum of musculoskeletal issues, providing clients with personalized, holistic treatments to encourage optimal recovery.

The Differences and Similarities

The differences between clinical manual soft tissue therapy, physical therapy, and chiropractic therapy do overlap since all three professions deal with the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones). Choosing the right practitioner is mostly dependent on the desired outcome of the therapy.

Clinical Manual Soft Tissue Therapy (Massage)

Focus: Clinical massage therapy targets soft tissue injuries and dysfunctions, working to improve flexibility, reduce pain, and restore muscle function. This therapy goes beyond relaxation, addressing specific physical concerns. Therapists employ focused techniques to accelerate recovery and enhance healing in muscles and connective tissues.
Approach: Unlike general massage, clinical massage is medically focused. Therapists assess areas of concern, such as tight muscles, scar tissue, or injured tissues. This personalized approach tailors treatments to meet each individual’s specific needs.
Techniques: Various methods are used, including deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release, all of which aim to improve soft tissue health. Focus for these techniques is long-term improvement, relief of chronic pain and tension, or aiding recovery.
Education: Clinical massage therapists are licensed professionals with extensive training in medical massage. General massage therapists get 500-600 hours of training. Medical/Clinical massage therapists often have 1300-3000 hours of training with a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology and precise techniques to address both acute and chronic conditions.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Focus: Physical therapy aims to restore mobility, improve function, and relieve pain through exercises and manual techniques. It helps individuals recover strength, range of motion, and quality of life, especially after injury or surgery.
Approach: Physical therapists create tailored rehabilitation plans after assessing musculoskeletal issues. These plans may include exercises, manual techniques, or therapies like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to restore movement and prevent future injuries.
Techniques: Common techniques include strengthening exercises, joint mobilization, and functional training. Physical therapists may also use heat, cold, or electrical modalities to assist recovery. Each plan evolves as the patient progresses to provide comprehensive care.
Education: Physical therapists may hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and are licensed healthcare professionals trained in anatomy, kinesiology, and therapy techniques. They manage a range of conditions, from sports injuries to post-surgery recovery.

Chiropractic Care

Focus: Chiropractic care targets the spine and musculoskeletal system, using spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and improve nerve function. The goal is to relieve pain and enhance overall health.
Approach: Chiropractors assess spinal health and use manual adjustments to realign the spine, promoting better nerve function. They utilize non-invasive techniques to enhance wellness through spinal health.
Techniques: Chiropractors primarily use spinal manipulation to correct alignment and relieve pressure. They may also employ soft tissue techniques, exercises, and lifestyle advice to support long-term health.
Education: Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree and focus on diagnosing and treating spinal and musculoskeletal issues. They work closely with other healthcare professionals when further medical intervention is needed.

When to Choose Each Treatment

Clinical Massage Therapy

Clinical massage therapy addresses soft tissue injuries and chronic pain with targeted massage techniques, making it ideal for issues like post-op care, muscle tightness or scar tissue concerns.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is perfect for post-surgery recovery, injury rehabilitation, or conditions affecting mobility. It focuses on improving function through structured exercises.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is well-suited for spinal health. It offers relief from back or neck pain and corrects misalignments that may affect overall health.

At RTPI, we focus on clinical massage therapy but collaborate with chiropractors and physical therapists to provide a well-rounded approach when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Clinical Massage Therapy Differ from Physical Therapy?

Clinical massage therapy differs from physical therapy as it targets soft tissue through manual techniques, while physical therapy focuses on joint mobility and functional improvement through exercise. Both methods complement each other but address different aspects of recovery.

Should I See a Chiropractor or Massage Therapist for Back Pain?

Choosing between a chiropractor and a clinical massage therapist depends on the underlying cause of your back pain. Chiropractors focus on realigning the spine, which may help with misalignment, while clinical massage therapy can target muscle tension or soft tissue concerns. Understanding the source of your discomfort will guide you to the most suitable treatment and in many cases, clients see both.

When Should I See a Physical Therapist Instead of a Massage Therapist or Chiropractor?

You should see a physical therapist instead of a massage therapist if you’re recovering from major surgery, managing joint issues, or need assistance with mobility and strength. This structured approach targets functional recovery through exercises and manual therapy.

Does Return to Play Institute Provide Physical Therapy or Chiropractic Care?

No, Return to Play Institute does not provide physical therapy or chiropractic care. We offer clinical massage therapy, focusing on soft tissue concerns. However, we collaborate with a network of chiropractors and physical therapists when those services are beneficial for your condition.

Can I Receive Both Clinical Massage Therapy and Physical Therapy at the Same Time?

Yes, you can receive both clinical massage therapy and physical therapy at the same time. Combining both therapies can accelerate recovery. Massage therapy focuses on soft tissue health, while physical therapy addresses joint function and strength. Together, they provide a comprehensive recovery plan.

Your Path to Recovery

Understanding the benefits of clinical massage therapy, physical therapy, and chiropractic care empowers you to make informed health decisions for your path to recovery. Each treatment offers unique advantages tailored to your needs, whether you seek relief from chronic pain, recovery from an injury, or improved mobility. At the Return to Play Institute, we support your recovery by combining our knowledge in clinical massage therapy with collaboration with other healthcare professionals for personalized care. Start your wellness journey today and take a step toward a healthier, more active life!

Ready to Start Feeling Better? Book Today.
Call/Text: 305-990-1350 (Miami) or 763-270-9330 (Minneapolis)