Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise, and offers many benefits. Running can be done anywhere, it tones the lower body, and it burns a ton of calories. Pounding the pavement over time results in injuries to runners knees, ankles, hips and lower back.
Whether you run a few miles a week to keep the extra pounds off, or hoof it in several marathons a year, there is unfortunately a good chance you will get hurt at some point.
The first step to recovery if you injure yourself running is to give your body time to heal. A visit to the doctor, ice packs, and over the counter pain medication are all options to treat an injury. However, one of the best ways runners can treat their injuries is by visiting a chiropractor.
If you are dealing with a running injury and think a chiropractor may be able to help you get back on your feet with less pain, you are correct. Here are four important things to know about chiropractors and how runners can benefit from chiropractic care:
Chiropractors work on runners joints also
Knee pain is the most common running injury. By adjusting the spine, the runners nerve system comes on-line thus improving the function of the knee. The entire body can benefit from chiropractic. Chiropractors are able to work with an injured knee and bring about a positive outcome. A chiropractor reduces strains, sprains, and other trauma to your body’s joints. Soft tissue around the joints benefit from chiropractic care, which can greatly ease an injury to the ankle, knee, or hip.
Chiropractic promotes quicker healing of the injured area
From increasing blood flow to the hurt area to breaking up restrictions with adjustments, chiropractic helps the body heal itself. Chiropractors view the body in its entirety. They use spinal adjustments to affect other parts of the body and stimulate healing of the afflicted area.
Chiropractors assist in pain management
Running injuries can often cause great pain that lasts for weeks. Visiting a chiropractor can help reduce the severity of the pain and shorten the amount of time you experience pain. This is an especially attractive benefit for those who avoid taking medicine. Chiropractic care helps manage the discomfort and soreness associated with the injury, allowing the patient to rely less on drugs.
Chiropractic reduces the risk of re-injury
A common reason runners end up hurt is their bodies had something “out of whack” in the first place. Chiropractors take the wellness of the body as a whole into consideration. They often work with runners to minimize the chance of re-injuring themselves or suffering a different injury. By making certain an individual’s body is in alignment and functioning properly, a chiropractor can help the runner feel comfortable moving back into the routine of running. Running is a great form of exercise and stress relief, and many people run for years without incident. It’s vital to take steps up front to minimize the chances of getting hurt. Choose proper shoes, stretch beforehand, and avoiding overexertion.
If you feel a twist, pop, or crack as you are out for your morning run or finishing your half marathon, know that chiropractic is here to help you. Just pick up the phone and give us a call. We’re here to help!
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