Chiropractic Care Elevates Athletic Performance

Research suggests that not only can chiropractic alleviate sports injuries, it may even give you a competitive edge. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics indicates regular chiropractic cervical manipulation can improve grip strength. The results could have crucial implications for sportsmen and women in racquet sports, martial arts, or baseball.



The study included 18 professional judo athletes who were treated with either chiropractic care or a sham treatment. Scientists used a hydraulic dynamometer to determine the force of athletes' grip strength directly before and after each therapy. The authors specifically evaluated grip strength since martial arts rely on significant upper-body strength. Treatment included three chiropractic neck adjustments. The patients treated with chiropractic care had statistically significant gains in grip strength, whereas the sham therapy did not provide significant results. Typically chiropractic care enhanced grip strength by 10 to 16 percent.

So if you’re looking to enhance your athletic performance or recuperate from a sports injury, seeing our office in Joplin, MO could be your secret weapon. Dr. Lewis is seasoned in working with athletes with a diverse range of ages, skill levels, and sports focuses. Dr. Lewis can help you address muscle imbalances or underlying musculoskeletal issues that could be suppressing your performance. Using exercise therapies, chiropractic adjustments, and massage, our comprehensive chiropractic could help you recuperate between workouts and prevent injury. Call our office in Joplin, MO today for effective sports injury treatment and prevention.

Botelho, Marcelo and Bruno Andrade. Effect of Cervical Spine Manipulative Therapy on Judo Athletes’ Grip Strength. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2011; 35(11): 38-44.