How Chiropractic Care Can Aid in Injury Recovery and Pain Relief
Chiropractors are renowned for their ability to help injured athletes return to their sport quickly and safely. They use drug-free, natural therapies to reduce inflammation and strengthen tissues in order to accelerate the healing process. They also work to correct spinal misalignments that limit flexibility and reduce range of motion, which can hinder sports performance and increase the risk of injury.
Research has shown that chiropractic care can significantly decrease the amount of prescription pain medication needed by a patient and can speed up recovery time from car accident injuries, such as whiplash. These injuries can be quite painful, and patients often experience a variety of symptoms, including neck and back pain, stiffness, headaches, and numbness. Chiropractors are able to assess the musculoskeletal system and provide a treatment plan that includes spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises, and lifestyle recommendations.
A study by the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients with car accident injuries who received chiropractic care within 72 hours of the incident were able to reduce their consumption of prescription pain medications. The study found that this was due to the fact that chiropractors are able to address physical trauma stored in the musculoskeletal system through manipulation and adjustment techniques. This helps to relieve pain, increase range of motion, and enhance the body’s innate healing abilities.
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors also employ various soft tissue techniques, such as massage and myofascial release, to ease tight muscles and break down scar tissue that can form as a result of injury. They may also perform a technique called Flexion-Distraction therapy, which uses a special table to move the spine carefully, creating space and easing pressure on the affected areas, thus speeding up the healing process.
Depending on the nature of the injury, a chiropractic doctor might use a range of therapeutic modalities, such as cold or hot packs to reduce inflammation and swelling, ultrasound, or electrical muscle stimulation to stimulate blood flow and reduce pain and stiffness. They might also suggest rehabilitation exercises to improve strength and stability, which can prevent future injuries.
For example, they might recommend specific stretches and exercise to promote flexibility and prevent the tightening of muscles that can restrict movement and lead to poor posture. Lastly, they might recommend nutritional and dietary advice that can help to reduce inflammation and support healing.
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors and enjoy participating in sports, chiropractic care can be a powerful tool to elevate your athletic performance. Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can help with reaction times, which are critical for athletes who need to respond quickly to catching a ball or switching directions while playing a sport. This is largely because spinal dysfunction, or subluxations, in the upper vertebrae of the neck can interfere with nerves’ ability to communicate with the brain. This is why it’s important for people who are active to receive regular chiropractic checkups to ensure that their spines are aligned properly. Seeing a Atlanta chiropractor at the first sign of discomfort can significantly improve your recovery time and help you get back to playing sooner. Contact us today to schedule a chiropractic care in Atlanta at Midtown Family Wellness.