Anyone participating in sports activities runs the risk of injury, from pros on down to the weekend warriors. Dr. Joe Mikluscak of Acute and Wellness Chiropractic Clinic in Manassas, Virginia, treats both the gameday injury and the long-term, wear-and-tear conditions. There’s no need to play in pain. Call the clinic today.

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What are common sports injuries and who is at higher risk of injury?

There are several common sports injuries. Those who play rough contact sports, such as football, have more fractures and tears like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears in the knee. Those who play sports that require repetitive motions, such as swinging a tennis racket or running, have a higher occurrence of wear-and-tear chronic injuries that develop over time like tendonitis. Those who participate in sports where they have to jump, twist, or make swift movements, such as basketball, have a higher risk of spraining or tearing muscles or tendons.

How does chiropractic care with Dr. Miklusak treat sports injuries?

Treatment depends on the type of injury. Many sports injuries are soft tissue injuries — the sore muscles, aches, strains, and sprains that often accompany participation. The first step in chiropractic treatment of any sports injury is the diagnosis. Dr. Mikluscak performs a quick exam to identify lost motion, weakness, and tender spots that may give clues about the nature of the patient’s pain. Visually assessing posture and gait and further testing using diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, may be necessary to rule out serious injury.

After diagnosis, relieving acute pain becomes the priority. Using the chiropractic adjustments and manipulations appropriate for the injured area, Dr. Mikluscak restores the body’s balance, permitting better blood flow to the injury and relieving pressure on any irritated nerves. This gives the body its best chance to heal naturally. Finally, Dr. Mikluscak considers maintenance. This could include ongoing chiropractic treatments as well as home care through stretching and exercise.

Why does sports medicine with Dr. Miklusak include rehabilitation?

Simply treating an injury may serve the purpose of relieving pain and getting the player back on the field, but it may not address the underlying vulnerabilities that permitted the initial injury. If proper body mechanics aren’t supported during a sports activity, re-injury is not only possible, it’s likely. Following a course of chiropractic rehab, including ongoing chiropractic care and specific stretching and strengthening exercises that support the injured area, creates the best conditions for ongoing pain-free participation.