Professional martial artists use chiropractic, massage therapy and acupuncture.
Why would a martial artist want to be under chiropractic care, acupuncture or even massage therapy? There are many reasons, some are obvious, and some are not. Obviously they would seek out such care after an injury, or accident while training. Many people who push their bodies to their limits complain of lower back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, headaches, as well as extremity pains like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. Flexibility and conditioning play a major role in limiting such problems. Other causes can be related to improper warming up, stretching and over exertion, even dehydration.
Less obvious, but equally important reasons include maintaining proper alignment of spinal and extremity joints to avoid injuries, and problems, particularly with the lumbar and cervical discs in the spine. Discs are semi gelatinous and fibrous cushions that act as shock absorbers between the bones. If there is a misalignment above or below a discs, it will cause it to wear out faster than it was designed, and increases the risk of it swelling, or tearing.
Extremity joints are especially important to make sure they are aligned. Many strikes, blocks and kicks can affect wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, hips, and feet. Not to mention those art forms like jiu jitsu that involve joint locks.
Muscles should be maintained at their normal resting length with massage therapy, trigger point therapy and other massage techniques. They need this because as people train, work, sit, or stress out, muscle become tight and get stuck that way. Massage Therapy helps to reduce the effect of that, allowing better flexibility, improved joint mobilization, and it feels great.
Acupuncture is a form of ancient medicine that has been around, and has not changed in over 5,000 years. It makes sure the known energy paths of the body are flowing properly so it can function and repair quickly and efficiently. Many striking points in various martial arts affect such points, and repetitive strikes, and blocks can affect them, leading to poor health or problems.
Regardless of the style performed, many people suffer with injuries from time to time and throughout their career. That does not mean training is dangerous or should be avoided, but here are some easy things you can do to stay out of trouble.
- Warm up! Most people do that wrong, they simply stretch cold muscles not ready to be worked or stretched. It is best to have a warm up routine that includes active movements, and stretches, to improve circulation and to get the muscles warmed up. Even a couple minutes of cardio, bouncing, fast walking, running, or jump roping will achieve such a goal. Ballistic stretching where bouncing is involved should be avoided, as that is one of the fastest ways to injure muscles and joints.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluid before, during and after training. Water is best, but if you are performing extensive training in hot environments, electrolytes are very important to consume.
- Know your limits: Always try to improve and excel, but never over do it, or push yourself to the point of injury. Leave your ego at the door, and train to improve, not to prove anything!
Make sure your body is properly cared for under chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture. In the heart of Parkland, we have martial artists who seek our care from neighboring cities, and as far as Hollywood and West Palm Beach, and as close as Coconut Creek, because of the in depth techniques we offer. Some are karate styles, Thai, Israeli reality fighting styles like Haganah, while others are MMA style fighters. Regardless of the style, if you want to have a long career developing you body and skills, caring for you body is essential. Please feel free to call or schedule a consultation to see how you can take your training to the next level. (954) 340-7545. To learn more go to our website: www.PHandWC.com