Category: Preventing Injury

Unlock the Power of MyACT Therapy at Dynamic Sports Medicine

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At Dynamic Sports Medicine, we’re committed to offering cutting-edge treatments that deliver real results for our patients. One of our most powerful therapies, Myofascial Acoustic Compression Therapy (MyACT), is transforming the way we address pain, injuries, and mobility issues. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone recovering from a chronic condition, MyACT therapy could be the solution you’ve been searching for.

What is MyACT Therapy?

MyACT uses acoustic sound waves to target specific areas of pain or dysfunction in your body. These sound waves penetrate deep into tissues, promoting healing by increasing circulation, reducing inflammation, and releasing tension in tight muscles or fascia.

Unlike traditional massage or physical therapy, MyACT therapy delivers precision-targeted treatment, addressing the root cause of your pain instead of just masking the symptoms.

How Does MyACT Work?

1️⃣ Precision: Using acoustic waves, we can identify and treat the exact areas causing your discomfort.

2️⃣ Healing Response: The waves stimulate your body’s natural healing process, encouraging blood flow and tissue regeneration.

3️⃣ Quick Relief: Many patients feel immediate improvements after just one session, with long-lasting results.

What Conditions Can MyACT Help With?

MyACT therapy is highly effective for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain: Lower back pain, neck pain, and joint discomfort.

• Sports injuries: Tendonitis, muscle strains, and ligament injuries.

• Fascial tension: Tightness in the muscles or fascia that limits mobility or causes discomfort.

• Post-surgical recovery: Speeding up the healing process and reducing scar tissue.

• Performance optimization: Keeping your body in peak condition and reducing recovery time.

If you’ve been struggling with lingering pain or mobility issues, MyACT could be the game-changing therapy you need to get back to doing what you love.

Ready to Experience the Benefits of MyACT?

Don’t let pain or discomfort hold you back! MyACT therapy can help you recover faster, reduce pain, and perform at your best.

📅 Book your MyACT session today!

👉 ONLINE SCHEDULING

Let 2025 be the year you move better, feel better, and live without limits. With Dynamic Sports Medicine and MyACT therapy, the road to recovery starts now!

Understanding Common Sports Injuries: Prevention and Treatment

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Staying active and participating in sports is an excellent way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, engaging in physical activities also carries the risk of sustaining injuries. Whether you’re a professional athlete, someone who plays sports on the weekends, or simply enjoys recreational sports, it’s important to know about common sports injuries and how to prevent and treat them. This knowledge is essential for keeping yourself safe and being able to continue participating in sports.

 

The Importance of Injury Prevention

Preventing sports injuries should be a top priority for anyone involved in athletic activities. Not only do injuries cause physical discomfort and potential long-term consequences, but they can also lead to missed opportunities for training, competition, and overall enjoyment of the sport. By taking proactive steps and using proper techniques, you can greatly decrease the chances of getting injured and improve your overall performance.

 

Recognizing Common Sports Injuries

To effectively prevent and treat sports injuries, it’s important to know the most common types of
injuries that athletes often experience. These injuries can vary depending on the sport, how intense
it is, and individual factors like age, fitness level, and technique. Some of the most common sports
injuries include:

1. Knee Injuries

Knee injuries are among the most frequent and potentially crippling injuries in sports. They can
vary from small sprains and strains to more serious conditions like tears in the anterior cruciate
ligament (ACL) or injuries to the meniscus. These injuries often occur because of sudden twisting
or pivoting movements, direct impact, or overuse.

CommonKneeInjuries:
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
  • ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears
  • Meniscus Tears
  • Knee Sprains and Strains

2. Shoulder Injuries

The shoulder is a complicated joint that can get injured in sports that involve overhead movements
or contact. Shoulder injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe instability or tears in the
rotator cuff or labrum.

CommonShoulder Injuries:
  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis or Tears
  • Labral Tears (SLAP Lesions)
  • Shoulder Impingement
  • Shoulder Instability or Dislocation

3. Ankle and Foot Injuries

Ankle and foot injuries are prevalent in sports that involve running, jumping, or quick changes in
direction. These injuries can range from mild sprains and strains to more severe fractures or
tendon ruptures.

CommonAnkle and Foot Injuries:
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Achilles Tendinitis or Rupture
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

4. Head Injuries

Head injuries, especially concussions, are a major concern in sports and activities where there is a
risk of hitting the head. Concussions can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function, balance,
and overall well-being if not properly managed.

CommonHeadInjuries:
  • Concussions
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
  • Skull Fractures

5. Muscle Strains and Tears

Muscle strains and tears can happen in any muscle group, but they are especially common in the
hamstrings, quadriceps, and calf muscles. These injuries can range from mild discomfort to
complete muscle ruptures, depending on the severity.

CommonMuscle Strains and Tears:
  • Hamstring Strains
  • Quadriceps Strains
  • Calf Strains
  • Groin Strains

6. Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a frequent problem for athletes, especially those who participate in sports that
involve doing the same movements over and over, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in high-impact
activities. Pain of this nature can arise from a variety of sources, such as muscle strains, disc
herniation, or spinal misalignment.

CommonLower Back Injuries:
  • Muscle Strains
  • Disc Herniation or Bulging
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Spondylolysis or Spondylolisthesis

7. Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries occur when a specific body part is subjected to repetitive stress, which can cause
inflammation, pain, and possible structural damage. These injuries are common in sports that
involve repetitive motions, such as tennis, swimming, or distance running.

CommonOveruse Injuries:
  • Tendinitis (e.g., Tennis Elbow, Jumper’s Knee)
  • Stress Fractures
  • Shin Splints
  • Bursitis

 

Injury Prevention Strategies

While it’s not possible to completely get rid of the chance of getting hurt while playing sports, there
are a few things athletes can do to lower the risk of getting injured. These strategies include:

1. Proper Warm-up and Cool-down

Engaging in a thorough warm-up before physical activity can help get your muscles, joints, and
cardiovascular system ready for your sport. Likewise, a proper cool-down after exercise can help
with recovery and lower the chances of muscle soreness and injury.

2. Strength and Flexibility Training

Incorporating strength training exercises into your routine can help make your muscles stronger,
stabilize your joints, and improve your overall body balance. This can reduce the chances of getting
injured. Additionally, regular flexibility training can enhance your range of motion and decrease
the likelihood of muscle strains and tears.

3. Proper Technique and Form

Maintaining proper technique and form during athletic activities is crucial for injury prevention.
Seeking help from experienced coaches or trainers can assist you in learning the right way to move
and prevent injuries caused by incorrect movements.

4. Adequate Rest and Recovery

Allowing your body sufficient rest and recovery time is essential for preventing overuse injuries.
Listening to your body’s signals and taking breaks when needed can help avoid excessive strain
and promote optimal recovery.

5. Appropriate Equipment and Gear

Wearing the right protective gear, like helmets, pads, braces, and shoes, can greatly lower the
chance of getting hurt while playing sports. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn-out gear is
also essential for maintaining optimal protection.

6. Hydration and Nutrition

Proper hydration and nutrition play a vital role in maintaining overall health and supporting the
body’s recovery processes. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet with important nutrients
can improve your athletic performance and help you recover from injuries.

 

Injury Treatment and Rehabilitation

Despite your best efforts to prevent injuries, accidents can still occur. When you get injured, it’s
important to quickly get medical help and follow a thorough treatment and recovery plan. The
specific treatment will depend on the type and seriousness of the injury, but common methods may
include:

1. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

The RICE method is a widely recommended initial treatment for many sports injuries. Resting
the injured area, putting ice on it to reduce swelling and inflammation, using compression bandages,
and raising the injured body part can help reduce pain and support healing.

2. Medication

Over-the-counter or prescription medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or
pain relievers may be suggested to control pain and inflammation linked to sports injuries.
Medications that can be bought without a prescription or prescribed by a doctor, such as
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers, may be advised to help manage
pain and swelling caused by sports injuries.

3. Physical Therapy

Working with a licensed physical therapist is often a crucial component of the rehabilitation
process. Physical therapists can create personalized exercise plans to help regain strength,
flexibility, and range of motion. They can also offer advice on the correct techniques and strategies to
prevent injuries.

4. Surgical Intervention

In cases of severe injuries, such as complete ligament tears or fractures, surgical intervention
may be necessary. Procedures like ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, or fracture fixation can
help restore joint stability and function.

5. Alternative Therapies

Complementary and alternative therapies, like chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, or
cryotherapy may be suggested alongside traditional treatment methods to help manage pain,
decrease inflammation, and support healing.

6. Gradual Return to Activity

After getting hurt, it’s important to slowly and systematically resume physical activity with the help of
healthcare professionals. Returning to sports or other physical activities too quickly before fully
recovering can raise the chances of getting hurt again or experiencing more problems.

 

Conclusion

Engaging in sports and physical activities is important for a healthy lifestyle, but it can also lead to
injuries. To reduce the risk of getting hurt, athletes and active people should learn about common
sports injuries, use prevention methods, and get the right treatment and rehabilitation when needed.
This way, they can keep playing their favorite sports for a long time. Remember, prioritizing injury
prevention and prompt treatment is crucial for safeguarding your well-being and prolonging your
athletic endeavors.

Healing Shoulder Injuries: The Chiropractor’s Perspective

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Rotator cuff issues, shoulder instability (dislocation) and labrum tears are some of the most common sports-related shoulder injuries, and while there are times when surgical intervention is required, it’s not as often as you think — or as early in the process as you might believe.

Except for the most traumatic of cases, surgical referrals for shoulder injuries are generally only considered after all non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted, because in most cases, the problem can be solved, or at least dramatically improved, through physical therapy and sports chiropractic management.

In addition, surgery is going to require some pretty intensive post-op rehab anyway in order to regain optimal shoulder function, so it makes sense to employ sports chiropractic therapies as a first-line approach. In many cases, surgery can be completely avoided.

Sports chiropractic management of shoulder pain and injury involves the use of multiple modalities that begin with assessing a patient’s quality of movement, not just in the shoulder but in the neck and mid-to-upper spine.  While that may mean a spinal adjustment is needed, it can also be a useful tool for your sports chiropractic team to determine potential points of dysfunction, such as postural issues or compromised nerves or discs that have led to faulty movement patterns. Many times simply finding therapeutic movements that release constrictions and/or allow the nerve or disc to find relief can dramatically reduce pain and make chiropractic treatment much more effective.

It is important, however, to know if faulty biomechanics are an issue before doing certain intense rehabilitation exercises since choosing the wrong ones for your condition might make the problem worse. Your sports chiropractor can determine which stretches and exercises will be most beneficial.

When necessary, the manual manipulation and mobilization of the many different structures of the shoulder girdle, neck, and upper back, combined with physical therapy modalities such as ice and myofascial massage, electrical stimulation, pulsed electromagnetic field, and red light therapy, among others, can often lead to pain-free mobility.

Sports chiropractic care offers pain management of shoulder conditions in very few treatment sessions, with follow-up appointments designed to strengthen and stabilize the shoulder to prevent re-injury.  If you are dealing with shoulder pain or injury, contact Dynamic Sports Medicine to see how a sports chiropractic approach can help.

Tackling Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Solutions

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Sports Chiropractic Solutions for Tackling Tendonitis

Tendonitis is a common condition among athletes due to the repetitive motions required in many sports. Throwing, swinging, swimming, running, jumping (and landing,) among other athletic movements, all can repeatedly stress tendons, the thick, fibrous tissues that connect muscle to bone and allow the bones to move when the muscles contract. Over time, degradation can occur.

Any compromise in movement due to fatigue, injury, equipment, or deficit in technique, strength, or flexibility can create issues anywhere in the body where there are tendons, but most commonly in the heel, knee, wrist, elbow, and shoulder.

While tendonitis can be an acute injury, it is generally a condition that develops over time, which is why tendonitis cases are often referred to with names like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, runner’s knee, or quarterback’s (or swimmer’s) shoulder. They come from repeatedly stressing the same joint in the same ways.

In acute cases, tendonitis can result from increasing your load or training difficulty too suddenly, improper maintenance or replacement of equipment, not allowing enough recovery time, and poor posture or spinal alignments.

Sports chiropractic care has many ways of addressing tendonitis, no matter where it happens in the body. As body functionality specialists, sports chiropractors seek to identify and correct the root causes that likely led to a patient’s tendon issues.

Proper spinal and limb alignment is vital to ensuring optimal range of motion through sports-specific movements. Hands-on manipulations of both the joints and the affected muscle structure can identify misalignments, calcium deposits, constrictions, and inflammation. A myriad of non-invasive sports chiropractic treatment modalities can work together to reduce pain, increase mobility, and promote more complete healing than rest alone.

  • Biomechanics analysis reveals deficiencies in strength, flexibility, and muscle balance.
  • Corrective strengthening and stretching exercises can reduce strain on the joint and surrounding tissues and address deficiencies.
  • Massage therapy improves blood flow to the area.
  • LED red light therapy enhances circulation and energizes healing tissues.
  • Acoustic compression therapy directs pulse-activated waves directly to the cells to stimulate faster healing.

Sports chiropractors are experts not only in analyzing the quality of movement but in improving strength and mobility to optimize it.

 

Symptoms of Tendonitis

Tendonitis results in pain and tenderness when moving the affected joint or limb and can dramatically reduce the range of motion. The swelling and discomfort may start out mild and dull and get worse over time.

  • Tennis elbow is characterized by pain and weakness in the outside of the elbow that radiates to the forearm and wrist when you grip an object or perform any motion that requires the twisting of the wrist.
  • Golfer’s elbow presents pain, weakness, and stiffness on the inside of the arm that can radiate numbness and tingling through the outer fingers when attempting to grip an object or make a fist.
  • Jumper’s Knee, more formally known as patellar tendonitis, results in pain at the base of the kneecap where it meets the shinbone that may not only when playing your sport, but when climbing stairs and getting up from a seated position.
  • Quarterback’s/Swimmer’s Shoulder refers to rotator cuff tendonitis pain that radiates from the front of the shoulder down the side of the arm and may even hurt when trying to sleep on that arm.

Playing through pain associated with mild tendonitis will not make it go away, and will likely exacerbate the problem. If not treated early, tendonitis can result in a tendon tear, which often requires surgical intervention.

Sports chiropractic care is highly beneficial in the treatment of both new and chronic cases of tendonitis. If you have any of the symptoms of tendonitis or experience pain during play, visit Dynamic Sports Medicine for an evaluation.

Spine Decompression Near You

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A pressured spine leads to a lot of health complications which usually start in chronic neck pain. Is this something that you need to endure every day? If yes, then it’s time for your spine to breathe!

Imagine waking up every morning without the sharp twinge in your back or the persistent ache in your neck. In a world where spine-related issues are becoming increasingly prevalent, finding effective solutions for back and neck pain is more critical than ever. Right now, the leading solution is spinal decompression near you.

Before going to your nearest chiropractor to get spinal decompression, we think you should understand what causes some compression in the spine and also the types of spinal decompression you may need.

 

Common Causes of Spinal Compression

Back and neck pain often stems from spine compression like the one you are experiencing, a condition influenced by various factors. Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and general wear and tear on the spine are among the common culprits. Understanding the root cause of your discomfort is the first step toward finding an effective solution.

If you find yourself wincing when you stand up, experiencing shooting pains down your legs, or feeling a constant stiffness in your neck, you might be dealing with spinal compression. Recognizing these symptoms early on can lead to timely intervention and a more effective recovery.

 

The Solution? Spinal Decompression!

Spinal decompression is a therapeutic approach designed to alleviate the pressure on your spine, providing relief from pain and promoting overall well-being. By gently stretching the spine, decompression therapy aims to create space between vertebrae, allowing discs to return to their natural position and encouraging the flow of nutrients to the affected area.

In other words, getting spinal decompression near you involves taking off the pressure endured by your spine for a long time, and carefully rebuilding its healthy posture, all in the name of relieving the pains you experience at the back.

 

Types of Spinal Decompression

  • Traction Therapy – Involves stretching the spine using a traction table or device, promoting proper alignment and reducing pressure on spinal discs.
  • Inversion Therapy – Utilizes an inversion table to position the body upside down, easing gravitational pressure on the spine and promoting spinal elongation.
  • Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression – A more advanced and targeted approach, often involving the use of a computer-controlled table to gently stretch and relax the spine.

 

What Will You Get From Spinal Decompression?

Spine decompression offers a range of benefits for individuals struggling with back and neck pain:

  1. Pain Relief – Decompression therapy can significantly reduce pain by removing pressure on spinal nerves and discs.
  2. Improved Mobility – By restoring the natural space between vertebrae, decompression therapy enhances flexibility and overall mobility.
  3. Non-Invasive Option – Unlike surgical interventions, spine decompression is a non-invasive treatment option, minimizing the risks associated with more invasive procedures.

 

Mindful Chiropractic and Wellness: Spinal Decompression Near You

If you’re ready to say goodbye to persistent back and neck pain, take the next step towards a pain-free life by booking an appointment with Mindful Chiropractic and Wellness. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Our team of experts at Mindful Chiropractic and Wellness is dedicated to addressing the root causes of spine compression, offering modern and personalized treatment methods tailored to your unique needs. Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure that you receive the highest standard of care in a comfortable environment.

Don’t wait—book your appointment today and take the first step towards a life without the limitations of spine-related discomfort.

What is Plantar Fasciitis

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Plantar Fasciitis

Our feet are the foundation for all of our upright movements, supporting all of our body weight support and providing balance and stability when standing and moving. So when we have pain in one or both feet, it can drastically affect our daily activities.

The most common foot pain complaint is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs from the top of the heel toward the sole of the foot. One in 10 people will experience pain from plantar fasciitis at some point in their lives.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include a sharp, sometimes burning pain in the heel that is often worst first thing in the morning.  While it usually, gradually, gets better throughout the day, it is possible to have dull, constant pain all day.

Plantar fasciitis can affect athletes and non-athletes alike for a variety of reasons, but the most common tend to be a lack of strength in the intrinsic foot muscles and poor ankle mobility, specifically dorsiflexion (flexing your toes up toward your shin.) People with a higher-than-normal BMI or who have overly tight calves and hamstrings tend to be more prone.

There are a number of ways sports chiropractic can address these issues.  The first line of treatment, after resting the foot as much as possible, is generally to prescribe specific stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot, calf, and hamstring to loosen up and smooth out the fascia and, hopefully, relieve some inflammation. It is important to stretch and strengthen the posterior muscles of the leg as well as the foot, because they are all connected, and tight hamstrings and calves will pull on the heel bone and create excess tension on the bottom of the foot.

 

Figure Four-Foot Stretch

Sit in a chair with both on the floor.  Take your left foot and rest it on the right leg in a figure-four position. With your right hand, pull the ball of your foot (not just your toes) up toward your shin and hold for a few seconds.  Relax.  Repeat. You should feel a good stretch along the arch of your foot and up your Achilles tendon.

 

Heel Raises and Dips

Holding onto something or someone for balance, stand with both feet on a stair, curb, or small portable step with your heels hanging off the back. Lift up onto the balls of your feet and hold your heels elevated for three seconds before slowly lowering until your heel is below the step or the curb. Hold that position for three seconds before returning your foot to a neutral position. Repeat five to 10 times. After several days or weeks, graduate to single-leg exercises lifting and lowering one foot/heel at a time.

 

Standing Calf Stretch

Stand in a slightly lunged (diagonal) position with one leg forward and hands flatly on the wall. Keeping your back heel firmly on the ground, slightly bend your front knee until you feel a stretch in the lower portion of your back leg (calf.) Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and switch to the other leg. Repeat the stretch three times on each leg.

 

Foam Rolling

Using a foam roller or small, firm ball (lacrosse or tennis ball,) roll with moderate pressure across the bottom of the foot to manually soften and stretch the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon. You can do this by rolling the foam roller or ball across the foot or rolling your foot across whichever tool you are using.

While many times, plantar fasciitis pain can be dramatically lessened with at-home stretches, severe or repetitive cases might need more serious intervention. DSM Sports Medicine has a variety of non-invasive ways to help your foot function more fully.

  • Manual manipulation of the foot
  • Soft tissue therapy along the plantar fascia
  • Dry needling
  • Gait analysis (overpronation can lead to plantar fasciitis)
  • Orthotics to temporarily relieve pressure

For athletes, the issues that cause plantar fasciitis can be as troubling as the condition itself. Poor intrinsic foot muscle strength and limited ankle mobility can not only make it difficult to ever reach your full athletic potential, it will also make you much more prone to injury.

Utilizing sports chiropractic therapies to analyze your biomechanics, strengthen intrinsic foot muscles, and achieve better ankle mobility will help you avoid overusing certain muscles, make injury less likely, and improve overall strength and speed.

Regardless of your fitness goals, optimal foot health is necessary to remain active and pain-free.  Spending just five minutes a day dedicated to stretching and stretching the muscles of your leg and foot just like you would any other muscle of your body can both prevent and relieve painful conditions like plantar fasciitis.

If you suffer from foot pain, contact Dynamic Sports Medicine to discuss your options.

Lower Back Pain after Working Out

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Lower Back Pain after Exercise

Mild soreness, tightness, or fatigue in the lower back after some workouts is common, particularly if you have done weight work or other exercises specifically designed to engage those muscles. Like any other muscle group, the lower back will feel the work during and after deadlifts, kettlebell swings, barbell squats, and even long runs. This feeling should be entirely tolerable and short-lived just your posterior chain acknowledging that it has been challenged.

If the pain is severe, long-lasting, or causes you to cut back on physical exercise, it may be time to consider a few things.

How’s your form/technique?

While strength training is a key factor in longevity and mobility, Improper body alignment while lifting heavy objects, including weights, is a primary reason for injury to the lower back. When performing tasks like deadlifts, it is vitally important to push your hips back, and keep a flat back and your neck in line with your spine while in motion. Instead of pulling the weight up with your arms, think of the exercise as the result of pushing the heels of your feet into the ground. If you can’t maintain a proper posture without rounding the back and shoulders during a deadlift, you’re likely lifting too heavy.

Similarly, with kettlebell swings, the work comes from the thrust of the hips, not from any movement in your spine and shoulders. Your arms and the kettlebells only swing because of the momentum created by the lower body.

If you have pain after running or participating in stop/start sports, it is likely from repetitive stress that has caused one or more spinal misalignments in discs and vertebrae. It could also be the result of an underlying weakness in the core or gluteal muscles.

Are you Working with Opposing Muscle Groups?

With both strength training and cardiovascular activities, it is important to focus on muscles as antagonist pairs, and not just work the “major” muscles we think make us look most fit. Intentionally targeting all muscle groups not only leads to a better overall physique, it improves mobility, coordination, and balance, and it can help prevent pain and injury. Many extremely fit patients who come in with lower back pain often have unknown muscle weaknesses or imbalances, i.e. runners with weak glutes or tight hamstrings from weak quadriceps.

If you have persistent lower back pain after working out, it is important to make sure you do not have the beginning of injury or other conditions that will be exacerbated by continued activity. A sports chiropractic evaluation will be extremely beneficial in several ways.

The dedicated team at Dynamic Sports Medicine can:

  • check for body misalignments and perform spinal and limb adjustments when necessary
  • perform gait and technique analysis during motion
  • conduct strength and mobility testing to identify imbalance and weakness
  • utilize a variety of healing modalities such as therapeutic massage, dry needling, myoacoustic compression therapy, among others, to assist in range of motion and healing
  • prescribe targeted stretching and strengthening exercises to balance muscle groups and optimize movement

Remember that while fatigue is normal after engaging lower back muscles, sharp and enduring pain may be signs of current or potential injury. Contact Dynamic Sports Medicine today for a sports chiropractic approach to relieving lower back pain after working out.

Dry Needing for Elbow and Knee Pain

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Over time, even the best-conditioned athletes tend to suffer from pain associated with overuse injuries. Repeated motions from golfing tennis and many other sports can eventually exceed the tolerance of the muscles, bones, tendons, and cartilage in certain areas of your body. Elbows and knees are common joints affected by these types of injuries.

Unlike acute trauma, overuse injuries tend to sneak up on you, beginning with minor discomfort that you might ignore and, eventually becoming severe enough to interrupt training and other activities.

Tennis elbow (pain on the outside of the elbow, and in the forearm and wrist) and golfer’s elbow (pain on the inner side of the elbow) conditions are not limited to tennis players and golfers, rather, they can affect anyone using repetitive flexion and extension motions that create micro-tears and tissue degeneration in and around the elbow joint.

Overuse injuries of the knees can result in interior, anterior, and lateral pain in and around the knee.  A common overuse condition of the knee is patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, which occurs when there is degeneration along the tendon that runs from the quadricep to the shin bone from repetitive pulling on the knee when jumping, landing, running, and cutting. The pain is generally located just below the knee.

Common or not, overuse injuries should not lead you to consider giving up your sport.  Dry needling is one of many sports chiropractic therapies proven effective for addressing elbow and knee pain.

 

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling involves the insertion of tiny dry needles (nothing is injected) into trigger points of the elbow and knee. These hyper-irritable spots in the muscles are often the site of pain and swelling, and they may even be palatable as small knots or adhesions in the upper bands of the muscles.

Dry needling seeks to deactivate painful trigger points by both reducing inflammation and improving circulation to the irritated area.  When pain and inflammation are reduced and nutrients are free to flow back to the aggravated knees and elbows, healing efforts are more likely to succeed.

Many patients report a dramatic improvement in pain reduction after just one session of dry needling, with even greater relief over time, especially when used in conjunction with other sports chiropractic therapies, such as soft tissue manipulation, red light therapy, and more.

That’s because tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and jumper’s knee are not always due solely to repetitive motion. Unbalanced muscle strength, skeletal misalignments, and poor biomechanics often exacerbate overuse mobility issues.

Once pain is relieved, sports chiropractic care is better able to address the underlying causes of pain in the elbows, knees, and other places in the body.

If you are struggling with elbow or knee pain and want to see if dry needling therapy can help you get back to pain-free athletic training, contact Dynamic Sports Medicine today.

Pros and Cons of Dry Needling: A Needle Away From Relief

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Have you ever wondered about those tiny needles used in physical therapy that seem to magically alleviate pain? Well, you’re not alone. This method or treatment is what is commonly known as Dry Needling!

Dry needling has been on the rise in the United States, with an increasing number of people turning to this technique for pain relief and rehabilitation.

According to recent reports from the American Physical Therapy Association, dry needling is gaining popularity as an adjunctive therapy, particularly in sports medicine and musculoskeletal rehabilitation. So if you are an athlete or active person now experiencing pain or recovering from injury, dry needling can be your relief channel.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling originated from the principles of traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture. However, it has evolved into a distinct therapeutic technique used by healthcare professionals, including physical therapists and chiropractors near you.

While acupuncture and dry needling both involve inserting thin needles into the skin, they have different purposes and underlying principles which you must know. The goal of acupuncture, which has its roots in ancient Chinese medicine, is to balance your body’s Qi or energy flow. On the other hand, dry needling is based on Western medicine principles, targeting specific trigger points to release muscle tension and alleviate pain.

In the years that have passed, dry needling earned both praise and doubts from various studies which urged us to balance based on the condition we are having.

Pros of Dry Needling

  • Effective Pain Relief

You might be wondering, does it work? Well, numerous research studies support the efficacy of dry needling in relieving pain. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that dry needling can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with musculoskeletal conditions. So if your main concern is the persistent pain or limitation on movement, dry needling can be a good resort.

  • Muscle Relaxation and Improved Range of Motion

Have you ever felt tightness or stiffness in your muscles that just won’t go away? Dry needling might be the solution. By targeting trigger points and releasing muscle tension, dry needling helps improve flexibility and range of motion.

Imagine being able to move more freely without those nagging aches and pains. This benefit is likewise sought by many athletes like you who experience injury or simply want to improve their range of motion.

  • Minimal Side Effects

In managing pain, safety is a top priority. Dry needling stands out for its minimal side effects compared to other pain management techniques. Unlike some medications that may have adverse reactions, dry needling carries a low risk of complications. APTA considered this therapy as non-invasive which supports its safety for patients where there is no required medication or any medicine to be inserted in the body.

  • Enhancing Overall Treatment Plans

In rehabilitation settings, dry needling has been integrated successfully into treatment plans for conditions like chronic pain, sports injuries, and musculoskeletal disorders. This comprehensive approach addresses multiple aspects of a patient’s condition for better and faster outcomes. For patients like you who sought the first layer of treatment from other medical professionals, dry needling can still work that is the suggested setting. While in the recovery phase where physical pain is your problem, dry needling will help you improve the pain points.

Cons of Dry Needling

  • Limited Regulation and Standards

Now, on to an important concern. One of the challenges with dry needling is the limited regulation and putting standards in training. Unlike some medical procedures, there is a lack of consistent guidelines and requirements for practitioners. But to ensure the expertise of the person who will administer dry needling to you, it is suggested to simply go to licensed clinics and medical facilities.

  • Potential Risks with Poorly Trained Practitioners

This raises concerns about the quality of dry needling services, especially when performed by practitioners with inadequate training. Choosing a healthcare professional who has received proper education and certification in dry needling to ensure a safe and effective experience is thus crucial. This is simply an offshoot to the first cons above, and, again to make sure that you are receiving a quality and safe dry needling service, better avail the service of those licensed clinics.

  • Rare but Serious Complications

While dry needling is generally safe for you, like any medical intervention, it’s not without its potential side effects. Common reactions include bruising and soreness at the needle insertion sites which will eventually disappear later on.

In extremely rare cases, more serious complications such as infections or pneumothorax (collapsed lung) have been reported. To weigh the potential risks against the benefits and have open communication with your healthcare provider is essential.

Your Pain Is Now A Needle Away!

From effective pain relief and improved flexibility to your concerns about limited regulation, we’ve covered the spectrum. You deserve to have a pain-free life through dry needling. While we are not setting aside the cons of this therapy, they should not be a hindrance because we have a place for you where you are assured of the expertise of people delivering this relief for you.

You’re in luck! Dynamic Sports Medicine stands out as a top-expertise and modern approach in dry needling. With a team of highly trained professionals dedicated to your well-being, Dynamic Sports Medicine offers cutting-edge dry-needling services tailored to your unique needs.

Dynamic Sports Medicine prides itself on staying at the forefront of healthcare practices. The clinic’s experts are not only well-trained in dry needling but also steadily update their skills to provide you with the best possible care. Don’t let pain hold you back — take the first step towards a more active and pain-free life.

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How to Use Foam Rolling for Faster Sports Injury Recovery

Posted on by Admin

Sports injuries are thieves, stealing time, comfort, and your favorite activities from your life. The faster you can move past them, the faster you can get back to your professional sport, weekend warrior schedule, or regular pick up games with friends. One accessible, easy-to-use, and effective way to speed up healing is to use foam rolling. This self-guided way to accomplish myofascial release can help you to address muscle tightness, reduce soreness and improve your flexibility. Here is a look at how to use this approach to speed up your healing. 

Understanding Foam Rolling

Before you learn how to most effectively leverage foam rolling to heal your sports injury, you should understand what it is. This approach is relatively simple, incorporating a foam tube into exercises to relieve muscle tightness and soreness in the affected area. 

Young woman using a foam roller while doing stretching exercises at home in morning sunshine.

This approach is considered a self myofascial release, meaning that you can use this approach on your own, or under the guidance of a sports medicine professional, to relax the connective tissues around the muscles and bones in your body (called the fascia).

Myofascial approaches, such as foam rolling, use pressure to target areas where the fascia is tight or restricted. This pressure releases the tightened area and encourages the flow of blood and the free movement of the affected area. You can complete foam rolling on your own or, often, in the presence and under the guidance of a skilled sports medicine chiropractor who can assist you in identifying the areas that need treatment and the exercises that can help. 

The Benefits of Foam Rolling For Sports Injury Recovery

Foam rolling, when used correctly and effectively, can have significant positive effects on the body – Even before you experience a sports injury. Here is a look at some of the ways in which this approach can heal and strengthen your body, both addressing and preventing injuries. 

Reduce Muscle Soreness

Foam rolling, by releasing tension in the fascia and in the muscles, can reduce the amount of pain you feel, both from an injury and as a result of normal training. In fact, this approach has been proven to reduce discomfort for up to three days after an exercise routine. 

Improve Circulation

Foam rolling can improve the flow of blood to the body’s connective tissues, including areas where circulation tends to be lower, such as the tendons and the ligaments. The flow of blood boosts the delivery of oxygen, glucose and nutrients to these areas of the body, allowing them to heal more quickly and perform more effectively. 

Increase Range of Motion

Restricted fascia and tight muscles can limit your flexibility and prevent you from completing activities essential to your sport or daily life. Foam rolling, by releasing the tension in these areas of the body, frees up the joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles to achieve their optimal range of motion. 

Tips For Effective Foam Rolling

Home workout. Young woman massage thigh muscle with foam massage roller. Equipment for myofascial release.

Want to get the most out of your foam rolling? There are specific techniques to help you heal faster and maximize the benefits you get from this approach. Here are some of our suggestions: 

Start gradually

The type of roller you use and the amount of pressure you apply can vary depending upon your needs and preferences. When you are just starting out, opt for softer rollers and less pressure until you get used to the process. Your sports chiropractor can help you follow a schedule that works for your body and injury. 

Target the affected area

Foam rolling is most effective when it focuses on areas of your body that are tense, injured or sore. In order to identify these areas, consult with a sports medicine professional. They can help you determine which areas would most benefit from targeted foam rolling so you can heal more quickly. 

Use the proper techniques 

You will get the most benefit out of foam rolling if you apply the correct techniques. For example, the direction you roll, the pressure you apply, the areas you target, and more can all affect the benefits you receive from this approach. Follow your therapist’s instructions for the most benefit. 

Be consistent

You may not experience the full effects of foam rolling right away. Instead, you will need to use this technique consistently, over a period of time, in order to enjoy the full extent of healing available through this technique. 

Foam rolling is just one approach to treating (and preventing) sports injuries. Let the experts at Dynamic Sports Medicine leverage the gold standard in sports medicine care to help you heal from a wide array of injuries. We use many different approaches so you can enjoy the same kind of healing and support enjoyed by Olympic athletes. 

If golfer’s elbow stretches do not deliver the relief you require,  you may need to consult with an experienced sports medicine practitioner. At Dynamic Sports Medicine, we make athlete-trusted care available to everyone, so you can overcome golfer’s elbow, and anything else that afflicts you. Let our Austin sports chiropractor help you get the healing you deserve!

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