Yes. A strain is a partial or complete tear of a muscle or a tendon. The process known as fibrosis develops as the body repairs the damaged tissues, basically filling the damaged area with scar tissue. Massage is very helpful, particularly a technique called cross-fiber friction which remodels and allows the scar tissue to become more mailable and functional.
Physical Therapy technically pays more and is a longer educational commitment. I have been a Massage Therapist for 5 years and I love it. The world of bodywork and massage therapy is HUGE so there is always so much more to learn.
Yes, massage therapy can complement physical therapy. While physical therapy primarily focuses on restoring mobility, strength, and functional movement, massage therapy helps by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. When used together, the two approaches can speed up recovery, ease pain, and support long-term wellness. From a practitioner's perspective, having the right treatment equipment plays an important role in delivering these therapies effectively. A well-designed physical therapy treatment table not only provides comfort and proper positioning for patients but also allows therapists to seamlessly combine manual therapy techniques, massage, and rehabilitative exercises in one session. At Elite Chiro Tables, we understand that physical therapy and massage therapy often go hand in hand. That's why our tables are built to support both modalities, giving professionals the flexibility to integrate massage techniques into physical therapy sessions and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.
At this point medicare does not cover massage therapy (part A). Some of the supplemental plans (part B and C) do cover massage therapy. You would need to check with your provider to see if they cover "massage therapy provided by a licensed massage therapist." Insurance companies do not make decisions based on type of massage but perhaps who is performing it. Sometimes physical therapists' and chiropractors' massages may be covered and a massage therapist's may not be covered. But yes it depends on which part of medicare you are talking about. Supplemental medicare plans may cover massage therapy (and deep tissue massage therapy).
Medical massage therapy uses advanced deep tissue massage techniques to break up scar tissue, release adhered tissues, and promote healthy tissue growth and repair. Physical therapy usually involves more range of motion testing, joint mobilization, stretches, exercises, and some massage. Both Physical therapy and Medical Massage therapy require a detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Many Physical therapists do practice some form of massage and nearly all massage therapists are trained in range of motion, joint mobilization, and stretching movements.
No, physiotherapy and massage are not the same, but they can be used together as part of a treatment plan. Physical therapy is a branch of health care that involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of physical disabilities, disorders, and pain. Physical therapists use a variety of techniques, including exercise, manual therapy, and education, to help people recover from injuries and illnesses. The goal of physical therapy is to improve physical function and quality of life. Massage, on the other hand, is a type of manual therapy that manipulates soft tissues such as muscles to promote relaxation and relieve tension. Massage is part of physical therapy, but it is different from physical therapy. The main difference between physiotherapy and massage is the coverage. Physiotherapists have extensive education and training, including a university degree, and are licensed to practice in their respective countries. Massage therapists are also licensed, but generally do not have extensive training or education. In summary, physiotherapy and massage are two different fields that can complement each other in the treatment of physical ailments, but are not interchangeable.
The first appointment generally begins with information gathering, such as the reason for getting massage therapy, physical condition and medical history, and other areas.
Massage therapy is for those who are disturbed under respiratory, circulatory and musculoskeletal system. In Physical, it helps improve the body that is drawn from any injury and illnesses, it is also recommended to those who is under stress.
A physical therapist needs to do the same thing as anyone else that wants to get a massage therapy license. They need to go to an accredited school and pass the state or national exam, then apply for a license in their jurisdiction.
A professional directly providing health care services, this may include massage therapy, physical therapy, a specialist etc.
Deep friction massage techniques by a physical or massage therapist can be helpful to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, and prevent soft tissue build up.
The cost of massage therapy varies according to geographic location, experience of the massage therapist, and length of the massage.
Insurance coverage for massage therapy varies widely. There tends to be greater coverage in states that license massage therapy. In most cases, a physician's prescription for massage therapy is needed.