Acupuncture and massage therapy are two forms of therapy that complement each other well and overlap in terms of the benefits they offer.
However, the application of acupuncture and massage are very different from one another.
Acupuncture involves fine needles being inserted into specific points on the body, while massage therapy typically involves pressure from a therapist’s hands being applied to muscles.
In this article, I’m going to answer whether or not you can get a massage before acupuncture, afterward, and what the implications are:
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Can You Get a Massage Before Acupuncture?
If you’re planning on having both a massage and an acupuncture session, the good news is that you can get a massage before acupuncture, yes.
Sometimes, it’s actually recommended that you get a massage before acupuncture.
A massage before acupuncture can help to loosen up your muscles and prepare your body for the needles.
If you’re tight and tense, the needles may not go in as smoothly or as easily.
A massage can also help to relax you mentally and emotionally, which can make the acupuncture session more effective.
If a massage is helping treat a specific injury, then you’re also going to benefit from the session, too.
Related – Can Acupuncture Help with Sinus Problems?
Can You Get a Massage After Acupuncture?
You can also get a massage after acupuncture.
In fact, many people find that they feel more relaxed and their muscles are more pliable after a session of acupuncture.
A massage after acupuncture can help to further relieve any pain or tension that you’re feeling.
It can also help to improve your range of motion and flexibility.
If you have any bruises from the needles, a massage can also help to speed up the healing process.
What Are the Main Benefits of Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions.
The main benefits of acupuncture include:
- Reducing pain
- Improving circulation
- Regulating hormones
- Boosting immunity
- Improving digestion
- Reducing stress and anxiety
A lot of patients choose acupuncture over massage as it tends to be more effective at relieving pain and tension, while massage is more effective at increasing circulation and targeting muscle fatigue and injury.
You have to be OK with needles, and this is something that does put some people off.
The needles used in acupuncture are very small, however, and most people don’t feel them going in.
If you have a fear of needles, your acupuncturist will be able to work with you to help you feel more comfortable.
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of conditions, and it can be used alongside massage to improve your overall health and well-being.
What Are the Main Benefits of Massage Therapy?
The main benefits of massage therapy include:
- Reducing pain
- Improving circulation
- Relieving stress and anxiety
- Increasing range of motion and flexibility
- Speeding up the healing process
Both acupuncture and massage offer a variety of benefits that can improve your overall health.
If you’re looking for relief from pain, tension, or stress, both modalities can be effective.
If you’re trying to improve your circulation or speed up the healing process, massage may be a better option.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get a massage before or after acupuncture is up to you and your preferences and something you should seek professional advice on specific to your needs.
Some patients feel a little more nervous as you have to be more exposed to have a massage and it’s a lot more physical.
But all those worries always go away after the first massage and once they feel the range of amazing health benefits!
Related – A more detailed look at acupuncture and how it works.
How Massage and Acupuncture Compliment Each Other
While you can get a massage before or after acupuncture, the important thing to note is that these two therapies actually complement each other quite well.
Acupuncture and massage therapy sessions can be combined into one treatment plan.
The needles help to release any blockages in your energy flow, while the massage helps to relax your muscles and improve your circulation.
Both therapies work together to improve your overall health and well-being.
If you’re looking for the most benefit, I recommend seeking out a qualified practitioner who can create a customized treatment plan for you that incorporates both acupuncture and massage.
For me, the important thing is that you keep an open mind and embrace both therapies.
If you’re dealing with any kind of injury, or maybe you just don’t feel 100%, give both acupuncture and massage therapy a try before passing any judgment!
Header Photo by Antonika Chanel on Unsplash
I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master — I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.
