Have you considered consulting a chiropractor to support your sporting efforts? Some chiropractors focus on treating athletes and are commonly called "sports chiros." But what does this title actually mean? All Australian chiropractors complete a minimum five-year university program. We are well-trained professionals capable of supporting the health of both athletes and non-athletes. Many netballers, footy and soccer players, basketballers, and weekend warriors receive regular care.
However, we can have different areas of interest. Sports chiropractors focus on addressing the needs of athletes. They combine traditional chiropractic techniques with sports science, and often pursue additional studies that may be broad or specific to a particular sport. A sports chiropractor diagnoses, treats, and prevents musculoskeletal injuries and conditions related to athletic performance. Their goal is to prevent injuries, aid recovery, and improve performance, making their specialised knowledge invaluable as athletes reach higher sporting levels. While athletes and non-athletes can experience similar injuries, such as chronic low back pain, these often occur more frequently and severely in athletes. Chiropractors are trained to treat such conditions in both groups, but sports chiropractors provide additional sport- specific care. This includes preventing and treating injuries common in sports, such as falls, knocks, muscle tears, sprains, and strains. While the spine and joints are a priority, sports chiropractors also assess other areas crucial to athletic performance, such as the back, neck, and pelvis. They may also adjust knees, hips, ankles, feet, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Additionally, sports chiropractors may perform soft tissue techniques like massage or trigger point therapy. They may work with athletes to strengthen weak muscles, stretch tight ones, and balance muscle tone. Sports injuries frequently result from continual stress on a particular part of the body. A tennis player’s shoulder, a gymnast’s wrist, or a golfer’s lower back are common areas of repetitive strain. If an athlete also uses incorrect techniques, has musculoskeletal imbalances, or overtrains, the vulnerable area experiences even greater stress and injury risk. Sports chiropractors aim to treat and help prevent these issues. In addition to treatment, sports chiropractors may advise on gear, apparel, footwear, accessories, and joint supports. If necessary, they may work with other professionals or provide referrals, ensuring that athletes receive comprehensive care. Dr Adam is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner and has worked with multiple sporting teams during his career.
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Do you stretch regularly? Stretching improves the range of motion in your joints, keeping them supple, flexible, and enabling easy movement. Regular stretching can make a big difference, but be mindful not to overstretch - pushing too far can lead to discomfort or injury. Think of muscles like elastic bands; they lengthen and return to their original shape, just like muscles stretch and relax. But, like elastic bands, muscles can be damaged by overstretching. Small tears can occur in the muscle fibres, leading to weakness or soreness. If pushed beyond their limits, these tears can worsen, and the muscle may even tear completely, much like an elastic band snapping when stretched too far.
Thankfully, in muscles, this extreme outcome is unlikely in a normal stretching routine. Pain would typically cause you to stop before a rupture; however, small points of damage can occur. If you stretch too far or too soon — whether that means stretching without warming up, too soon after an injury, or overdoing it in a new routine — you can injure yourself. Overstretching can cause inflammation, presenting as swelling, reduced joint motion, and soreness. If you’ve ever experienced pain from stretching, this is likely the reason. So, how should you stretch? Sensibly! Stretching is best performed as a habit: lengthening your muscles to stay supple and healthy. You’ll feel good, function well, and reduce your risk of injury. Remember, while it can be tempting to “go for broke,” you should only reach the point of stretch-like discomfort. There is no advantage in stretching until you feel pain. The “no pain, no gain” mantra does not apply here. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask us. We’re here to support and guide you. This colourful, layered ratatouille brings fresh vegetables to life, baked to perfection with aromatic garlic and herbs. An easy, stunning dish that’s delicious and healthy! |
AuthorAdam's Back is a team of dedicated complimentary health professionals. Our aim is to support you in finding drug-free solutions for better health. Archives
November 2024
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