As we have discussed before, chiropractic care can benefit anyone. And this is regardless of their age or fitness ability. The most commonly known treatment is spinal adjustment. However, a well-rounded chiropractic wellness plan can be a great help to many of us. While some injuries are quick to recover, there are some that simply take longer. Some even involve surgeries. But good news! Those receiving routine, chiropractic care, decreases those odds! And if surgery is required, chiropractic care can aid in faster recovery time.
Chiropractic adjustments help to relax tense muscles to aid in the recovery process. As the muscles relax, fluids in the body become stimulated. They travel towards the injured area, bringing oxygen and other essential nutrients as well. This promotes quicker healing.
Increasing Range of Motion and Flexibility to Reduce Acute Injury Potential During the Race
When we were young, we often took for granted our mobility and flexibility. As we age and experience certain health conditions, our bodies begin to wear and tear. As our bodies continue to feel those strains, once easy tasks begin to feel difficult. That’s where chiropractic care can come in and save the day.
A chiropractor uses adjustments and manipulations to realign the body. Through restoring these bones and joints, many benefits may incur. These include reduced pain, a greater range of motion, and improved flexibility, balance, and coordination. From there, your chiropractor may also recommend specific exercises and stretches to be done at home. With the increased strength and flexibility, you’ll be able to continue building upon the benefits of chiropractic care.
In regards to running, make sure to continually stretch and warm-up before every single run. Warming up is extremely important, as it’s an effective way to reduce injury. It does so because it increases blood flow to your muscles. With the extra blood, they become more flexible and a reduction in strain.
Soft Tissue Work on Chronically Tight Muscles
Soft tissue work is used to assess, stretch, and manage soft tissues in the body. These soft tissues can include muscles, ligaments, tendons, and fascia. And this technique can often promote muscular strength and flexibility in tight muscles.
Our muscle fibers are prone to strain. When these fibers become tangled and damaged, we often feel pain and/or restrictions in movement. Often, we turn to stretching to try and alleviate this pain and tension. However, when muscles are chronically tight, backup is needed. Soft tissue work releases specific areas of tension. Once identified, the tangled muscle fibers can be isolated and lengthened to provide relief.
Using Kinesiology Tape
Have you ever been to the gym or the park and seen athletes covered in neon tape? While it looks cool, this “magic tape” isn’t just a fashion trend. The benefits of using kinesiology tape are numerous. Its no wonder the tape has become one of the most used therapeutic techniques as of late.
Although it doesn’t contain any kind of medication or topical substances, kinesiology tape can help to remove all kinds of pain. It works by slightly lifting the skin, reducing pressure on painful and sensitive areas. At the same time, it also subdues the feeling of pain, essentially blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. It also reduces pressure on the lymphatic system, helping to reduce swelling.
Kinesiology tape also helps to decrease recovery time from bruises. It helps to remove accumulating blood. As the tape is applied in a fan pattern, it helps to disperse the blood under the lifted skin. At the same time, the tape helps to prevent and relieve muscle spasms and cramping through improved circulation. Taped spots are able to receive an abundance of oxygen and other nutrients. And another added bonus, the tape is so flexible, that the covered areas are still able to perform at a full range of motion!
Click here to learn even more ways kinesiology tape can help you!
Is it Time to Step Up Your Chiropractic Care Game?
Even though the Marathon is around the corner, it’s not too late to include chiropractic care into your training. As mentioned, there are numerous benefits to working with a chiropractor as you put your body through such strain! Contact us today to schedule an introductory chiropractic session. We can discuss your training routine and needs as part of my initial chiropractic workup for you as a new patient to our practice.
* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please contact a medical professional for advice.