Massage therapy for the muscle that will not let go

Massage therapy works with the body's soft tissues. At our Clarksville practice, massage is performed by separately licensed massage therapists, rather than by the chiropractors. Before booking, ask who will provide your appointment, what it costs, and whether the session fits your needs.

What can massage help with?

Some people find massage helpful for short-term comfort or relaxation. Evidence for pain relief varies by condition and study quality; it does not establish a cure. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports limited evidence for low-back pain and possible short-term benefit for neck or shoulder pain. Read NCCIH's evidence summary.

Massage works on soft tissue, while chiropractic care may include joint-directed treatment. They are separate services. Receiving both does not guarantee a better or longer-lasting result.

Our guides to neck pain, back pain and shoulder pain explain why the cause of discomfort matters before selecting treatment. A massage booking is not a substitute for assessing unexplained or worsening symptoms.

Who provides massage here?

Massage therapy has its own Tennessee licensing board. You can use the Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure and the state's public license lookup to check a therapist's credentials. Ask our team for the name of the therapist scheduled for your visit.

What should I ask before a session?

• What training and experience do you have with my reason for coming in?
• What techniques and pressure do you suggest, and how can I ask you to change or stop?
• What should I expect about clothing, positioning, privacy and draping?
• How long is the appointment, and what is the full price?
• How will we decide whether another session is worthwhile?

You do not need to tolerate painful pressure to make an appointment worthwhile. Tell the therapist about your preferences and any discomfort during the session. Ask for a change or to stop whenever needed.

What are the risks?

Massage can cause soreness, and uncommon serious injuries have been reported, including nerve injury, fracture and problems involving blood clots. Vigorous techniques and some health conditions can increase risk. Discuss your medical history, recent injuries or surgery, and medicines before treatment. NCCIH describes the reported risks and precautions.

Anticoagulant medicines affect clotting. Tell the therapist if you take them and ask your prescribing clinician about appropriate precautions; do not stop prescribed medicine for a massage. NHS: anticoagulant medicines.

Seek urgent medical assessment for a painful, swollen leg that could be a blood clot. If it comes with chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911. Massage should not delay assessment. NHS: deep vein thrombosis.

With back or leg pain, new bladder or bowel changes, difficulty passing urine, numbness around the genitals or saddle area, new sexual dysfunction, or weakness in both legs require emergency assessment. Go to an emergency department rather than waiting for a massage appointment. NHS: back-pain emergency symptoms.

What are the alternatives?

The choice depends on the problem. For low-back pain, NICE places massage and other manual therapy within a plan that includes exercise. Physical therapy can help with a tailored movement plan; medical assessment addresses symptoms needing diagnosis or medication decisions. NICE low-back pain recommendations.

Massage is not offered here as a treatment for systemic disease, insomnia or surgical recovery. Our headache guide explains why headaches need their own assessment. Laser therapy is another separately described service with its own limits.

How do I arrange a massage appointment?

Contact our team and ask specifically about massage availability and fees. Check the terms before assuming the chiropractic new-patient offer applies to another service. You can also explore our services before calling.