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How Chiropractors Prevent Injury in Athletes

By Debra Rodzinak

A common misconception about chiropractors is that they only “crack” backs. This is simply not true.  Sports chiropractors are an excellent source for those who want to prevent injury and increase performance. 

Over half of the NFL has a sports chiropractor on staff and every Olympic team has had chiropractors available for their athletes. Runners also benefit from chiropractic care. Meb Keflezighi, a Boston Marathon winner, swears by chiropractic care. Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, IT Band Syndrome, knee problems, and hip bursitis are all common sports injuries treated by chiropractors. 

Spinal Misalignment

Many sport-related injuries are tracked back to spinal misalignment caused by "unnecessary tension," according to sports chiropractor Dr. Scott Duke. When muscles are overworked and grow, tension builds up between the bones. Common areas where tension builds is the pelvis. The spine ends at the pelvis. If the pelvis is not in alignment, “wear, tear, and … strain” is put on different parts of the body. 

Causes of Misalignment

Different sports cause misalignment in different parts of the spine. For example, runners can cause improper alignment by repetitive running movements or improper or worn out footwear. 

But active sports injuries are not the only contributors to misalignment of the spine or pelvis. If a person sits in one position at their job all day, then goes out and performs a sport, their body may be stiff or tight from sitting all day. The muscles may be tight on one side of the body and cause a shift or tilt in the spine or pelvis.

Ways to Prevent Misalignment

Before performing any sport or exercise regime, try some of these tips to prevent stiff muscles during the workday.

  • If possible, move around or switch positions every 30 minutes.
  • Vary your posture by switching the leg you cross every half-hour, sitting on top of your ankle, sitting straight, and even slouching to change the muscle tension
  • Sit on a stability ball which will challenge the abdominal wall and loosen the pelvis
  • Always warm-up before any exercise routine

In addition to these tips, add regular chiropractic treatments to your overall health routine. Just like visiting the dentist for regular cleanings, or your physician for a yearly checkup, regular chiropractic treatments keep your spine from getting out of alignment. 

The expert doctors at The Joint can keep your spine and joints in proper alignment with gentle adjustments. If you are looking for a drug-free way to add preventive measures to your overall exercise regime, drop by The Joint today. With no pesky insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, The Joint makes it easy to prevent sports injury due to spinal misalignment.

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