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Pain Awareness Month: How Massage Therapy and Acupuncture Help With Chronic Pain


September is Pain Awareness Month, a time set aside to recognize how many Canadians live with pain that does not always show up on an X-ray or in a blood test. Chronic pain can be the tight shoulders that never fully release, the low back ache that lingers for months, or the jaw tension that makes it hard to enjoy a meal.

For many people, real relief means looking beyond a single treatment and building an approach that supports the whole body. At Pre-Kinetic Wellness Centre, our registered massage therapists and registered acupuncturist help patients across Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge manage chronic pain and support long-term comfort.

understanding chronic pain and its impact


Chronic pain is generally defined as pain lasting longer than three months. It can stem from an old injury, repetitive strain, or conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. Unlike acute pain, chronic pain may continue after the original injury has healed and often involves muscle tightness, sensitivity, and broader musculoskeletal pain. An integrated approach combining hands-on treatment with therapies that support the nervous system can help manage long-term pain.

How massage may help with chronic pain

Registered massage therapists assess how pain affects the body and adjust their techniques accordingly. For chronic pain, massage therapy may help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and ease myofascial restrictions.

Deep tissue techniques can target areas of tightness, while relaxation-focused massage may help calm the nervous system. Consistent sessions may provide ongoing support for conditions such as fibromyalgia, tension headaches, and chronic neck or back pain.

How acupuncture may support long-term pain management

Acupuncture is another tool that may help patients manage chronic pain, particularly when paired with massage therapy or chiropractic care. Fine needles are inserted at specific points to help stimulate the nervous system, supporting circulation, reducing muscle tension, and encouraging the body’s own pain-regulating response.

Patients across Pitt Meadows and the wider BC Lower Mainland often turn to acupuncture for chronic pain related to migraines, arthritis, and ongoing musculoskeletal discomfort. Because every treatment plan is personalized, our registered acupuncturist takes time to understand a patient’s full health picture before recommending a course of care.

Learn more about what a session involves on our acupuncture page.

improve circulation, and ease myofascial restrictions.

FAQ: Chronic pain and treatment in Pitt Meadows & Maple Ridge

How does acupuncture help with chronic pain?


Acupuncture may help by stimulating the nervous system and supporting the body’s natural pain-regulating response, which can reduce muscle tension and support circulation. Many patients pair acupuncture treatments with massage therapy as part of a broader pain management plan.

Is massage therapy effective for long-term pain management?


Massage therapy can be an effective part of a long-term pain management plan, especially alongside a home care routine and consistent scheduling. Results vary by condition, but many patients find it helps reduce tension and supports day-to-day comfort.

What is myofascial pain?


Myofascial pain refers to tightness, tenderness, or trigger points in the muscles and the fascia that surrounds them. It is a common contributor to chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain, and it often responds well to targeted massage techniques.

Do you offer direct billing for massage therapy and acupuncture?


Yes. Pre-Kinetic Wellness Centre offers direct billing to most major insurance providers for both massage therapy and acupuncture, which can make ongoing pain management more accessible. Our team can help confirm your coverage before your appointment.

How many sessions will I need to see results?


Every patient’s pain history is different, so frequency depends on the condition and how long it has been present. Your practitioner will discuss a recommended plan at your first visit and adjust it as needed.

take the First Step This Pain Awareness month


If chronic pain has been holding you back, our registered massage therapists and registered acupuncturist are here to help book your appointment today to take your first step.