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Why runners should consider consulting with a chiropractor

Running is an excellent form of exercise. You only need a good-quality pair of running shoes, and you’re good to go. But running can also harm your body, especially when you overdo it.

You put a lot of strain on your knees, hips, and ankles when you run. As a result, joint pain and other injuries can develop over time. 

If you wish to keep running, you may need to consult a professional chiropractor. Only a few people know, even runners, that there are injury prevention methods with chiropractic work. These apply to injuries common among runners.

But why a chiropractor? These licensed healthcare professionals specialize in treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily by manipulating the spine and performing manual adjustments. Chiropractic treatment aims to heal the body and improve overall health.

With proper chiropractic care, you can avoid potential injuries associated with running, and you can continue living an active and healthy lifestyle.

Not convinced yet? Here’s a list of reasons why you should consider consulting a chiropractor. 

It Can Help Prevent Injuries

As the saying goes, ‘prevention is better than cure.’ Not all bodies are the same, and not all body parts are symmetrical. You’d be surprised to know that the length of your legs may not be the same, which can cause injuries in the long run.

It’s essential to know your body well to prevent injuries. And one way to do that is to check your body alignment. When the spine is out of alignment, other body parts are weaker and more prone to injury. Running injuries often result from one part of the body compensating for another that is off.

A chiropractor will examine your posture, movements, hips, knees, and foot arch to determine how you stand and move. The benefits of chiropractic treatment can extend to the rest of the body because it helps align the spine. 

Moreover, regular chiropractic care and adjustments will lessen the damaging effects of running’s jarring motion on your body and help you avoid running-related ailments.

It Can Help Manage Injuries

Runners will likely sustain an injury at some point, and you shouldn’t take it lightly. It’s not advisable to keep running with an injury because it could severely harm your joints and nerves. 

Chiropractic treatment can help with more than just misalignments and tight tendons; it can also speed up the healing process and restore strength to the affected areas.

Another advantage of visiting a chiropractor is that recovering from injuries will go faster with the proper care. It won’t take months to recover if you put in the necessary effort and work with your chiropractor to treat your injury. You’ll be able to return to your routine most quickly and safely.

It Can Help Increase The Range Of Motion

According to a study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, chiropractic treatment can increase hip mobility over time.

Visiting a chiropractor regularly can help loosen your joints, improve your flexibility, and allow you to move more comfortably. Flexible and relaxed joints allow for more movement, which is good for a runner’s stride and performance. 

Though an increased range of motion does not guarantee you’ll get better and faster at running, it can enhance your overall performance and well-being as a runner.

It Can Help Improve Nervous System Functions

When your joints are out of alignment, they can exert pressure on nearby nerves. There’s often discomfort, tingling, numbness, exhaustion, and slowed reflexes. 

The realignment of joints and relief of nerve pressure are among the benefits of chiropractic therapy for improving nerve function. Nerve dysfunction can make your body appear older and worn out than it actually is. 

Furthermore, chiropractic care can help address neuro-musculoskeletal system abnormalities and revitalize the whole body.

It Can Help You Feel Relaxed

Getting chiropractic care is not only for when you have an injury. It’s also a perfect way to let loose mentally and physically. 

You can relax and unwind as your chiropractor works to loosen up your joints and muscles. After a session, you’ll feel refreshed and revitalized, just like after getting a relaxing full-body massage. 

Final Takeaway

Anyone who engages in strenuous physical activity knows how important it is to recover and take care of their body. Running is an activity that requires a lot of physical effort, so finding a chiropractor you can trust is something you should consider. If you enjoy running and wish to continue doing so without issues, you may find many benefits from seeing a chiropractor. They can help you prevent and manage injuries, improve your range of motion and nervous system functions, and help you feel relaxed. And that’s more than any runner could ask for.

posted Tuesday January 24th
by Colorado Runner