A Q and A with Jessica Deardorff of Inspire Movements

One of the most common questions I get is, “Should I do massage before or after my chiropractic adjustment?”

My honest answer is: it depends. But if someone is walking in with a guarded nervous system, tight fascia, or a history of feeling sore or restricted after care, I often prefer massage first.

So I sat down with Jessica Deardorff, owner and massage therapist at Inspire Movements, to talk about why she prefers this sequence too, especially using Ashiatsu plus cupping to prep the body.

Dr. Codi: Jessica, why do you like massage before chiropractic work?

Jessica: Because it reduces resistance. A lot of clients are living in chronic tension patterns. When the body is bracing, it is harder to create lasting change. Massage first helps soften the “armor” so the adjustment feels smoother and the tissues are less likely to immediately rebound.

Dr. Codi: What are you looking for when you say you are “prepping the tissues”?

Jessica: I am assessing where fascia and muscle are gripping and limiting motion. I focus on areas that commonly drive compensation, like the upper back, shoulders, ribcage, hips, and low back. When those areas decompress, the neck and jaw often feel less loaded too.

Dr. Codi: Why Ashiatsu specifically?

Jessica: Ashiatsu uses broad, sustained pressure with the feet, so it can address deeper restriction while still feeling grounded and controlled. For many people, that broad contact helps them relax faster than pinpoint pressure.

Dr. Codi: And cupping, why add it?

Jessica: Cupping can lift and mobilize fascial restriction, support circulation, and reduce protective muscle contraction. It is a great complement either before or after care, depending on what the body needs.

Dr. Codi: When does massage after an adjustment make sense?

Jessica: If someone tends to get sore, or if we want to support tissue adaptation after joint mechanics change, massage after can be excellent. But if the body is very tight or nervous, massage first usually improves comfort and tolerance.

Dr. Codi: What timing do you recommend?

Jessica: Same day is best. If schedules are tight, within one week is still worth it, especially with a full session.

Dr. Codi: What is your best “integration advice” after the combo?

Jessica: Hydrate, go for a walk, and do slow nasal breathing with a longer exhale. The goal is to help the nervous system feel safe enough to keep the change.

Want to try it?

If you are dealing with chronic tension, migraines, TMJ patterns, or you simply want your body to feel more ready for an adjustment, consider massage first, then NetworkSpinal care. 💜

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