Chiropractic Treatment and Triathletes

Training for a race that consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run presents an athlete with an incredible physical and mental challenge. Unfortunately, triathlon training also provides many opportunities for injury due to cumulative stress and overtraining, which can result in a broad range of injuries. While the potential for injuries may seem daunting to athletes, chiropractic treatment can help to negate these stresses and keep athletes in peak physical condition. 

Chiropractic treatment is based on maintaining a homeostasis, or balance, in the body. If the body is out of balance, the body’s mechanics begin to get altered. An imbalance or weakness can cause the recruitment of other muscles or joints in order to compensate. This leads to inefficient bodily movements that can have a negative impact on performance and activities of daily living. Chiropractors attempt to bring the body back into homeostasis by realigning the spine and joints through adjustments and manipulations. Many injuries that are experienced while training for a triathlon can be attributed to a weak core. Improving core and spine stability through chiropractic interventions and adjustments can help to treat current injuries and preemptively treat future ailments by regaining the bodies homeostasis. 

Chiropractic treatment is also a critical component of recovery after a triathlon. Chiropractic care can help athletes recover by treating injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints that may have occurred during the race. Post race adjustments to the spine can help to alleviate excess pressure on spinal cord nerves, reducing pain levels across the body. Chiropractic treatment, either in the preparation or recovery phase, is a critical component of triathlon training.

References:
Princeton Magazine: http://www.princetonmagazine.com/advice-from-chiropractor-and-triathlete-dr-leonard-ershow/
Midland Chiropractic Sports Rehab: http://www.midlandchiropractic.com/runners-and-triathletes-chiropractic-care/
The Joint: http://chiropractorphoenix-thejoint.com/paradise-village/triathlon-pushes-body-to-its-limits-chiropractic-heals/

Tim Bryan
St. Lawrence University '15
Mirror Lake Chiropractic Intern

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