Sports Chiropractors: An Introduction
Have you ever suffered from discomfort or pain after playing or practising sports? If so, you may want to consider visiting a sports chiropractor. If you want to learn more about sports chiropractors and how they can help you, keep reading!
1. What is a sports chiropractor?
Sports chiropractors are specialists in helping people with sports-related injuries and discomfort. They are trained to diagnose, treat and prevent physical activity injuries and help relieve pain, restore range of motion and promote healing. In addition, sports chiropractors use techniques like spinal manipulation and massage therapy to reduce the pain and discomfort that you may be experiencing.
2. What are the benefits of seeing a sports chiropractor regularly, even if you're not currently injured or experiencing any pain?
Sports chiropractors care about your long-term health just as much as they care about helping you recover from an injury. Of course, they use different techniques than general chiropractors (who work more with non-athletes). But regular visits to a sports chiropractor beyond your treatment phase will keep things working smoothly between appointments and reduce the chance of injury in the future. If they suspect something other than an injury-related issue, they may refer you to another healthcare specialist who is more appropriate for your situation. So if you see a sports chiropractor regularly, no matter what physical issues are being treated, chances are high that any health problem will get the attention it needs.
3. What should you expect from your first appointment?
Your sports chiropractor, they will ask about any injuries or discomfort that you've had in the past. They'll also probably ask when the pain began, how severe it is currently and if other factors affect things like range of motion. If they do suspect an injury, like your shoulder popping out of its socket, they may want to perform some tests before treatment begins. For example, they might press on different areas around your joints to see where you experience pain and how much pressure is necessary to cause this pain. Doing so helps them to determine what area needs adjusting precisely. Some sports chiropractors also use ice or heat for additional relief during the treatment during the adjustment phase.
Before your first appointment, you can always talk to your local sports chiropractor about their specific methods and techniques. They are there to help you get back on track, so don't be shy about asking questions if something seems unclear or confusing.
For more information, contact a chiropractor near you.