How Chiropractic Helps Sport Injuries In Wilmington NC

In the heat of competition, athletes push their bodies to their limits and beyond. Bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments are subject to a significant amount of stress. Sports injuries can be devastating and may result in loss of strength, joint problems and mobility impairment. A Wilmington chiropractor offers safe and effective therapies to relieve the pain of sports injuries and accelerate recovery.

Traumatic sports injuries can be caused by collisions, slips or falls. They include contusions, sprained ligaments and strained muscles or tendons. Repetitive strain injuries are common in sports where the same movements are used over and over. Forms of tendonitis such as tennis or golfer's elbow are due to overstressed and inflamed arm tissues.

When sports injury patients visit the Wilmington chiropractic clinic, they receive a thorough evaluation. The doctor consults with them about their sporting practices and symptoms. He then performs a physical examination and orthopedic tests. In some cases, x-rays or MRI scans are used to pinpoint the location of injuries. The chiropractor discusses his findings with the patient and develops a personalized therapy plan.

In most cases, precise manipulation of the spine is recommended. An imbalanced spinal column can exert excess pressure on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Misaligned vertebrae can pinch nerves in the spinal cord, triggering pain signals. A significant reduction in injury pain often occurs following chiropractic adjustment.

Other drug-free, non-invasive therapies are employed depending on the type of injury. Soft tissue massage and gentle stretches relax stiff muscles and increase flexibility. Electronic stimulation, ultrasound or cold lasers may be used to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain and stimulate the natural healing process.

The Wilmington chiropractor guides each sports injury patient through a rehabilitation program designed to help them return to peak performance. He assigns specific home exercises to enhance muscle strength and restore full range of motion. He also advises athletes about steps they can take to avoid future injury.