Running
Chiropractic performance care is an effective and popular option for runners who are experiencing injuries or want to improve their performance. Running injuries can be caused by various factors, including poor running mechanics, muscle imbalances, inadequate footwear, and overtraining. These injuries can range from minor discomfort to more severe conditions that may require surgery.
Dr. Anthony McDougall has extensive experience with the care of runners, going back to his involvement as the travelling chiropractor for 100m, 200m, and 400m sprinters for the Golden League (now known as the Diamond League) Track and Field competitions in Europe and culminating in following these same athletes at the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000.
Chiropractic performance care focuses on improving performance and preventing injuries by addressing the root cause of the problem. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help runners with their injuries, including spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and exercise rehabilitation.
Spinal Manipulation
Spinal manipulation, also known as the chiropractic adjustment, is a technique that involves applying a controlled force to the joints of the spine. The goal of this technique is to restore normal range of motion and reduce pain. Spinal manipulation can be effective in treating injuries such as low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Manipulation techniques can also be applied to other joints of the body, most notably for runners the feet, ankles, and hips.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Soft tissue therapy is another technique used by chiropractors to help runners with injuries. This technique involves the use of various manual therapies to manipulate soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Soft tissue therapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve range of motion, and speed up the healing process. At painPRO, Dr. McDougall will use effective manual techniques, but also has access to Shockwave Therapy as well as using a muscle stimulation device called the RSQ1. Both modalities have been tested and proven to be effective at the highest levels of athletic performance and the sports injuries associated.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Exercise rehabilitation is a key component of chiropractic performance care for runners. Chiropractors work with runners to develop customized exercise programs that target the specific muscles and joints affected by their injuries or identified as limiting their performance. These programs typically include targeted stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises. Exercise rehabilitation can help to improve performance, prevent future injuries, and promote overall health and wellness.
Common Running Injuries Treated by Chiropractic Performance Care
Chiropractic performance care can be effective in treating a wide range of running injuries. Some of the most common injuries treated by chiropractors include:
Plantar Fasciitis - a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel and foot.
IT Band Syndrome - a condition that causes pain on the outside of the knee.
Shin Splints - a condition that causes pain in the lower leg.
Runner's Knee - a condition that causes pain around the knee.
Achilles Tendinitis - a condition that causes pain in the Achilles tendon.
Benefits of Chiropractic Performance Care for Runners
There are many benefits to seeking chiropractic performance care for running injuries. Some of these benefits include:
Non-invasive Treatment - chiropractic performance care is a non-invasive alternative to surgery and other invasive treatments.
Customized Treatment - chiropractors develop customized treatment plans that are tailored to the specific needs of each runner.
Pain Relief - chiropractic techniques can help to reduce pain and inflammation caused by running injuries.
Improved Range of Motion - chiropractic techniques can help to improve range of motion and flexibility, which can improve running performance.
Injury Prevention - chiropractic performance care can help runners prevent future injuries by addressing the root cause of their current injury.
In conclusion, chiropractic performance care is an effective and non-invasive treatment option for runners who are experiencing injuries. By using techniques such as spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and exercise rehabilitation, chiropractors can help runners improve their performance and reduce the risk of future injuries. If you are a runner experiencing pain or discomfort, consider seeing Dr. McDougall for chiropractic performance care to get back on track.