Participating in sports comes with the risk of becoming injured as higher physical demands are placed on the body. Sports injuries occur frequently amongst both professional and recreational athletes and are a common reason for emergency room visits. Traditional medicine normally addresses the symptoms related the the injury, often with medications or surgery; alternately, Cincinnati chiropractors offer patients an effective natural approach to healing sports injuries.

Chiropractic medicine is focused on healing pain at its source. No drugs or surgery is used in this form of health care, only manual therapy methods. Furthermore, the chiropractic school of thought believes that the body possesses an intrinsic ability to heal itself which is encouraged by the application of these therapeutic techniques.

It is important for the patient to visit the chiropractor as soon as possible after he or she is injured, prompt attention can greatly reduce the likelihood that chronic problems will develop. The practitioner will ask the patient several questions, examine the injured area, and order diagnostic tests if needed. Understanding the nature and location of the injury will allow the practitioner to plan the best healing strategy.

There are different types of sports-related injuries; those which are caused by one isolated incident and those which are the result of a repetitive motion over time. The latter type of injuries can cause inflammation, reduced or painful range of motion, and the formation of scar tissue. The former type can occur in the form of fractures, sprains, tears, or dislocations.

Various techniques are helpful in bringing about healing; adjustments are effective in cases where there is a misalignment of the spinal vertebrae or discs. Hot and cold therapy can help to alleviate swelling and inflammation and promote tissue healing. Mobilization stretching exercises can also be effective in restoring mobility and can easily be done at home.

Whatever the type of sports injury the patient is suffering from, skilled Cincinnati chiropractors will be able to help him or her make a full recovery and get back in the game as soon as possible. Healing occurs in a natural manner that does not otherwise compromise one’s total health, as no unsafe drugs or risky surgery are involved.