50 million people in the US consistently either jog or run. Running is a wonderful aerobic exercise. It makes the heart and lungs stronger, and it serves as stress relief for many people. Millions of people look forward to the time of day where they get to lace up and hit the track. While running offers tons of benefits for humans, it can also cause strain on the body over time. It’s important for runners to properly care for their bodies as they train, such as investing in spinal decompression procedures. Below is a quick guide on the benefits of chiropractic care services for runners.
Whether you’re a runner or interested in running, make sure to keep reading.
What Happens to the Body While Running?
There are obvious benefits of running such as weight management, increased metabolic rates, and improved blood circulation. All of these benefits improve a person’s overall health.
Unfortunately, there are a few negative side effects you may encounter due to running. You’ll notice these issues even quicker if you run with a bad back or with poor posture.
Frequent runners may experience disc herniation, a sprain in the Sacroiliac joint, and muscle spasms. In short, running puts a lot of stress on the spine and muscles that may eventually cause issues.
How Chiropractic Care Services Help Runners
Finding a chiropractor for back pain is important to many people but imperative for all athletes. They’ll typically help by realigning your spine and increasing overall blood circulation.
As a runner works with a chiropractor, they’ll notice an improvement in movement and possibly even speed. An aligned spine loosens up surrounding muscles and joints. These loose muscles make the mechanics of your body more efficient.
Not only will runners notice an improvement in their performance, but they’ll also experience less pain and the possibility of injuries as they run. Consistently seeing a chiropractor for back pain and realignment will keep your ligaments and tendons safe.
Think of it as the alignment of your car! When the axel or wheels aren’t aligned, there’s more tension and stress on your car. Once a mechanic aligns everything, the car runs much more smoothly.
Different Techniques and Procedures to Help
Chiropractors will use a range of techniques and procedures to tend to your body’s specific needs. Don’t be afraid to ask any clarifying questions before they get started!
We’ll give you a quick rundown below of some techniques and procedures you might see.
Y-Strap Adjustment
The idea of a Y-strap adjustment may sound a bit intimidating, especially if you catch a glimpse of the strap in your chiropractor’s office. Don’t worry. It’s nothing to be afraid of.
The strap fits around the base of your skull, and it helps the chiropractor stretch out your neck and back. You’ll lie down on the table as they place the strap around your skull, and you’ll feel a pull as your vertebrae decompress.
Instrument Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
When it comes to IASTM, you’ll most likely see the Graston Technique used. The body is re-injured to break up concentrated scar tissue. These ‘injuries’ are at a much lesser degree than original injuries.
In these chiropractor-created minor tissue injuries, bonds within scar tissue are broken down. You’ll notice slight discomfort and inflammation where your body has created large pockets of scar tissue, but the old scar tissue is remodeled.
The remodeling of scar tissue reduces pain and allows for an increased range of motion. It’s amazing how much better you’ll feel!
Cervical Manipulation
Neck pain can be debilitating. It can be caused by bad posture, stress on the body, or a pinched nerve. No matter how it happened, search for a chiropractor for neck pain if you notice any pain or stiffness in your neck.
Chiropractors typically use their hands to slowly manipulate and align the neck. Sometimes all you need is a quick alignment of your vertebrae.
If your neck pain is from a pinched nerve, it could be coming from anywhere in the body! The chiropractor will do their best to ease the pain by aligning different bones, massaging the muscles, and taking pressure off any nerves.
What Can Runners Do on Their Own to Help?
On top of finding the best chiropractor in town, there are several things runners can do to help their bodies outside of the clinic.
If you’re a runner and your budget allows for it, invest in regular deep tissue massages. These massages relieve pain and break up scar tissue. Your body will feel much looser after a massage.
Practice proper running posture as you train. Lengthen your spine through the crown of your head as you run, and try not to twist your upper body as you run. Add plenty of core exercises to your workout routines to keep your core strong and supported.
Even if you’re not running, practice proper posture throughout the day. Many of us slouch as we work or read.
Finding a Chiropractor
Are you wanting to find a chiropractor? Hop onto Google. Search terms such as, “chiropractor near me,” or, “best chiropractic near me” for quick results.
Start by searching chiropractors near you. You might even check with your insurance plan to see if they have any nearby chiropractors in your network.
Always read the reviews as you search for a clinic to visit. Chat with friends and family members about any referrals they might have, especially if they’re also avid runners.
When you attend your consultation, guarantee you feel safe and comfortable with your chiropractor. Never be afraid to ask any questions or for any advice you can take home.
Tending to the Runner’s Body: Chiropractic Care
If you’re a runner and have started noticing aches and pains in your body, start searching out nearby chiropractic care services.
Running puts a lot of stress on the body, especially the spine and joints. A chiropractor can make any necessary adjustments to loosen up muscles, reduce scar tissue, and align vertebrae.
Are you looking for the best chiropractor in Houston? You’ve come to the right place. Set an appointment with us today, and we’ll help your body get back to feeling brand new.
