Chiropractors can treat and help prevent injuries of the neck, back, shoulder, knee, and ankle that are caused by sports. They are skilled in manual adjustment of the spine, ensuring that bones are lined up and balanced, which helps relieve tension in the body. This allows the body to function better and become less susceptible to injury. The goal of most chiropractic techniques is to restore or enhance joint function while resolving joint inflammation and reducing lower pain. This hands-on therapy is often used to treat neck pain or back injuries but also relieves pain throughout the joints and muscles in the body.
The main reasons athletes suffer sports injuries include forceful impacts, repetitive motions, over-training, and failure to warm up properly. Chiropractors can help athletes by relieving their pain and helping them heal faster after an injury. Regular visits will promote quicker recovery after games and training as well as better balance and overall performance.
In addition to treating injuries, chiropractors can also help you prevent injuries from occurring. Before beginning an exercise regimen or a sport, it is recommended that athletes get evaluated by a chiropractor. Chiropractors can check your muscles and spine to detect imbalance and alleviate tension so that the body can work naturally rather than be prone to injury.
If you are experiencing pain from a sports injury, consider seeing a chiropractor. You may want to schedule regular check-ups to prevent injuries from occurring and to keep your body performing properly.
Symptoms of Sports Injuries
When the body becomes injured because of sports or training, symptoms that can occur are:
§ Swelling
§ Burning, dull pain
§ Headaches
§ Muscle Pains
§ Inflammation
§ Muscle Spasms
Types of Sports Injuries
Depending on what type of sport you play, injuries will differ. Common injuries can include:
Neck Injuries - Neck injuries, such as whiplash, occur when the neck is quickly and forcefully pushed forwards or backwards in a whipping motion. Contact sports should be approached carefully because there is a higher risk for whiplash. Damage to the spine around the neck region can cause inflammation, which can result in pain and limited range of motion.
Pinched Nerves - Pinched nerve due to spine injury sustained from sporting activities can be painful. What is surprising is that many patients suffer with the pain for a prolonged period of time, when instead they could consult a chiropractor and be on the road to a pain free and active life again.
