Why Chiropractic Care is a Staple for Professional Athletes and Teams
Professional athletes invest heavily in their performance, exploring everything from advanced workout routines and reaction time enhancers to cutting-edge resistance training. As they strive for that competitive edge, they often adopt the latest in science and technology, including stem cell and platelet injections and even anti-aging treatments. Amidst these modern innovations, chiropractic care, a practice over a century old, continues to play a pivotal role in sports.
This field, deeply rooted in science, constantly adapts with new research advocating for legal, performance-enhancing strategies. At the heart of chiropractic philosophy is the idea that optimal human performance can only be achieved when the body functions at its best, which is closely tied to the health of the spine and central nervous system. A well-aligned spine ensures the nervous system operates smoothly, enhancing coordination and overall body function.
A notable 2018 study in the "European Journal of Applied Physiology" examined the impact of chiropractic adjustments on elite taekwondo athletes. Results showed that even a single session could lead to increased muscle strength, reduced fatigue, and enhanced corticospinal excitability—a measure of the brain-spine connection that influences movement and agility.
Despite these benefits, many still view chiropractic care as merely a remedy for back and neck pain. Yet, its potential extends far beyond pain relief. High-performing professionals, from NFL players to Olympic athletes, rely on chiropractic care not just for pain management but for maintaining optimal nervous system function. Nearly every NFL team and most MLB teams include chiropractic care as part of their conditioning programs, demonstrating its essential role in top-tier sports.
Chiropractic isn't just for elite athletes; it offers benefits at every age and stage of life. From high school sports enthusiasts to veterans, chiropractic adjustments help enhance function and performance without targeting specific symptoms or conditions. Instead, these adjustments aim to reduce nervous system stress, thus maximizing body performance.
Ultimately, chiropractic care represents a proven, accessible health care option not just for sports stars but for anyone interested in maintaining their health through enhanced nervous system function. It's a testament to the principle that optimal health leads to optimal performance, making chiropractic care a wise choice for anyone looking to live their best life.
Journal of Chiropractic Humanity, 2011
"A theoretical basis for maintenance spinal manipulative therapy for the chiropractic profession." D Taylor