How a Chiropractor can Help Treat Common Baseball Injuries

Four Mets baseball players, David Wright, Asdrubal Cabrera, Neil Walker and Lucas Duda, have one thing in common apart from playing for the same team. They share a history of injuries due to their rigorous and competitive natures. In particular, they suffered different kinds of neck, back, and arm injuries. Fortunately, some of the conditions that affect the bones, tendons, ligaments, and nerves can be treated by a chiropractor.

It behooves a player, particularly pitchers, to learn more about how a chiropractor can help with their neck and arm-related injuries. Key infielders might also find it useful since they are prone to spine problems.

Chiropractic Therapies for Neck and Arm Injuries

According to a news story, Wright, a third baseman, suffered a neck surgery in June because of a chronic condition called spinal stenosis. He also suffered from a herniated disk in his neck. A chiropractor first checks the medical history of the patient and diagnoses the causes of his problems before recommending treatment options. The chiropractor may then use neck manipulations for the neck injury. As for the herniated disk, the chiropractor would assess how he or she can best approach it and offer different manual and/or mechanical manipulations as options. Subsequently, the chiropractor would monitor Wright's conditions and in the absence of progress, may recommend other alternative therapies.

Apart from neck injuries, baseball players may experience shoulder tendinitis and rotator cuff ailments. In cases of arm injuries, a chiropractor can study possible interferences in your spine that may create nerve compressions. A chiropractor can investigate and locate any potential interference in your spinal vertebrae that may be causing compression of the nerves. Furthermore, a chiropractor can provide other modalities that can enhance movement, strength, and balance.

Spine Conditions Treatable through Chiropractic Care

Aside from neck and arm injuries, a chiropractor can help cure back pain and spine problems. Walker, a second baseman, had surgery for a herniated disk, while Duda had a vertebral crack and back spasms. They all complained of back problems as well. A chiropractor would carefully examine underlying conditions first, before offering treatment. He or she could apply spinal adjustments where appropriate because they are effective in treating lower back pain. Spinal manipulations could also improve form, balance, strength, and posture, which may help prevent future injuries.

If you’re a baseball player suffering from recurring arm, neck, and back injuries, consider suggesting chiropractic care to your coach or avail of it yourself. A chiropractor can provide comprehensive care that complements existing sports health programs all season long.

Sources:

“Chiropractic Treatments for Lower Back Pain,” spine-health.com

“For Mets’ Infield, Chiropractor May Be the Most Important Position,” nytimes.com

Dr. Darren Faherty D.C.

In 2004, Dr. Darren Faherty graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from UWEC - University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Dr. Darren continued education at the highly esteemed University of Western States (formerly Western States Chiropractic College) where he obtained his chiropractic degree in 2007. He has been helping people recover from injuries and return to their normal lifestyles ever since.