Athletes

Physical activity is a crucial component of maintaining one’s health, function and quality of life. However, physical activity, including competitive and recreational sports, can have an important impact on your musculoskeletal and related neurological systems. In fact, musculoskeletal injuries are the largest class of athletic injuries in sports, even among elite Olympic athletes1. 

The musculoskeletal system is structurally responsible for movement of the body. As spine, muscle and nervous system experts, with core interest in movement and function, chiropractors have played an important role in helping recreational and competitive athletes to enhance performance, manage and prevent injuries. As part of a healthcare team, chiropractors assess, diagnose and treat acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions commonly affecting athletes; however, also play an important role in preventative care and rehabilitation. 

Musculoskeletal Sports Injuries 

The most common injuries include: 

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Sprains and strains
• Knee injuries
• Lower extremity tendinopathies
• Rotator cuff injuries 

Commonly, musculoskeletal injuries result from poor adaptation, overtraining or repetitive use of a joint or muscle group. Due to the nature of most sports, foot and ankle injuries remain the most common musculoskeletal injury, followed by back pain. 

How Can Chiropractic Expertise Help Me? 

A chiropractor can properly assess, diagnose and treat sports injuries and help you prevent them from reoccurring. 

Reduce pain: Conservative joint manipulation and manual mobilization as well as soft tissue therapy can increase your range of motion and relieve pain. 

Relieve fatigued, aching muscles: Chiropractic treatment plans can include manual therapies complemented by modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and acupuncture as well as soft tissue therapy. 

Ensure a faster return to sports: Regular chiropractic care, combined with rehabilitation help an athlete return to play faster and prevent future reoccurrence. 

1. Vanhegan, I., Palmer-Green,Soligard, T. et al. (2013). The London 2012 summer Olympic Games: an analysis of usage of the Olympic Village “Polyclinic” by competing athletes. Br J Sports Med. 47(7): 415-9.