Osteopathy is a game-changer for athletes at all levels. It helps ease pain, improves sports performance and prevents further injury, making it very beneficial to those who regularly participate in sport. It also improves sleep quality, boosting energy levels and strengthening muscles and joints!
If you’ve been wondering how to improve sports performance read on as we will take a look at the different injuries osteopathy can treat, as well as how osteopathy can improve sports performance.
Injuries that osteopathy can treat
43% of athletes will get at least one injury per season which can cause 17 days of training to be lost and 1 competition to be missed. This makes it extremely important for injuries to heal in time. Osteopathy treats many different injuries, supporting the body’s natural healing processes and can speed up recovery time if incorporated into your treatment plan.
- Tennis elbow
- Golfers elbow
- Plantar fasciitis
- Groin strain
- Shin splints
- Frozen shoulder
- Tendonitis
- Pulled muscles
- Gastrocnemius strain
- Achilles tendinitis
- Cartilage tears
- Patellar tendonitis
How osteopathy enhances athletic performance
The use of osteopathy in sport enhances athletic performance in many ways, taking a holistic approach to get to the root of the problem. Let’s explore why, if you’re considering osteopathy to improve your sports performance, it’s worth taking the leap!
Enhances functional movement
Integrating osteopathy in sport regimes can significantly increase an athlete’s functional movement, which is essential when playing sports. The hands-on techniques used by osteopaths help address musculoskeletal imbalances to improve joint mobility and enhance athletic abilities.
By incorporating osteopathy in sport, athletes can also benefit from enhanced blood circulation which plays a crucial role in improving overall tissue health. This increase in blood flow not only helps speed up the recovery process but also contributes to greater flexibility and strength.
Strengthens muscles and joints
Taking part in a sport regularly can cause muscle groups to become overworked or overly tight, and can make others become weak. This is called a muscle imbalance which can limit performance or contribute to injury. Osteopathy alleviates overworked muscles whilst strengthening weakened ones, allowing athletes to maximise their physical abilities.
For athletes, optimal joint function is crucial for performance. Osteopaths use a range of manual techniques to mobilise stiff joints and address underlying problems. This reduces the risk of injury and enhances joint operation.
Prevents injury and stimulates recovery
Fast recovery after a sports injury is essential for an athlete. This is why integrating osteopathy in sport is important as it can help shorten recovery times by addressing inflammation, promoting circulation and facilitates the healing process.
With a detailed injury risk assessment of an athlete, osteopaths can address any issues proactively, reducing the risk of injury so that the athlete can enjoy a more consistent performance.
Activates the mind-body connection
Osteopathy takes a holistic approach; this means that it considers the body as an integrated whole, rather than just treating the individual symptoms. Because of this, Osteopaths can also recognise the connection between physical and mental health. Competitive sports can be both physically and mentally demanding, with an athlete’s mental health impacting their athletic performance.
Osteopaths use techniques that promote relaxation, contributing to a more focused mental state overall and during competition. In this way, the principles of osteopathy in sports helps athletes release and manage tension, ultimately benefiting an athlete’s emotional and mental well-being.
Takes a personalised approach
A key aspect of osteopathy is the personalised approach it takes. Treatment is tailored to the individual needs of each patient and osteopaths will work closely with the athlete to tailor a unique plan.
They will take time to understand the athlete’s specific needs, challenges and goals to customise a treatment plan that maximises performance capabilities.
Can’t wait for an appointment? Try RICE
To treat minor injuries yourself before making an appointment with your osteopath, follow the RICE method. RICE is a four step first-aid process that you can do at home to treat minor soft tissue injuries.
Rest the injured area and don’t put any weight on it for up to 48 hours.
Ice. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every 3 to 4 hours.
Compression. Use compression bandages to help the swelling and reduce movement.
Elevation. Keep the injured limb elevated above your heart in a comfortable position.
How Carl Todd Clinics can help
Consistent osteopathic treatment for athletes can help maintain overall health, prevent injury and enhance performance. By having regular appointments athletes can address their concerns and maintain optimal musculoskeletal health.
Incorporating osteopathic techniques such as stretching exercises into an athlete’s daily routine can help maintain joint health, flexibility and muscular balance. If you want to incorporate osteopathy into your routine contact us today!
Our knowledgeable team of osteopaths offers tailored treatments perfect for athletes wanting to enhance their functional movement and improve performance.
