If you are concerned with the safety of chiropractic care for young athletes, or for yourself, you may be surprised to learn that the American Medical Association has changed its view of chiropractic care over the past few decades. Once called "a cult" in "The Journal of the American Medical Association," the AMA now allows physicians to refer patients to chiropractic care when deemed appropriate, regardless of age. Chiropractic care for young athletes not only includes spinal manipulation, but advice on training, nutrition and injury prevention as well.
Spinal Manipulation
Parents are often concerned about seeking alternative medical assistance for their children, fearing more harm than good may result. Many chiropractors have devoted their entire practice to pediatric care, according to a study by doctors from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association published in "The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" in 2010. Additionally, research published by "Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing" documented supporting evidence of both the safety and effectiveness of spinal manipulative therapy.
Sports Training
Chiropractic care is not only geared toward controlling pain. One of the main focuses of chiropractic care is overall fitness through balancing bones, muscles, organs and nerves from regular maintenance. Proper spine alignment should allow your body to function at its peak performance while reducing stress and increasing energy, according to Sports and Spine Chiropractic.
Nutrition
The American Chiropractic Association offers advice on nutritional well-being for athletes, including eating a healthy, well-balanced meal two to four hours before games and practices. The ACA also recommends avoiding high-fat foods and fast food while eating more fruits and vegetables. Drink 1 percent or nonfat milk and lots of water -- eight glasses per day is a sensible goal. Save sports drinks with sugar and caffeine for long-duration sports such as track and field.
Injury Prevention
The ACA warns of the importance of proper warmups for young athletes in injury prevention. A slow jog is a great way to start a warmup, followed by some exercises that are sport-specific, ending with stretching all major muscle groups. The ACA encourages parents to actively participate in training to ensure the use of proper techniques. Also, the ACA suggests inspecting equipment to confirm that padding and protective gear fits correctly and is in good, usable condition.
Tips
If you are new to chiropractic care, set an appointment to consult with a chiropractor that someone you trust has recommended to you. Your child's coach may suggest someone specializing in pediatric care. Schedule a spinal manipulation for yourself first, to be sure the chiropractor's techniques are gentle and effective, while you discuss his experience treating children. Once you feel comfortable with your chiropractor, stay with your child during her visit and do not be afraid to ask questions. Discuss further with your family doctor, also.
References
- "The Journal of the American Medical Association"; What Chiropractic is Really Like!; 1960
- American Medical Association: AMA Code of Medical Ethics; March 1992
- "The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine"; The Chiropractic Care of Children; Joel Alcantara, et al.; 2010
- "Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing"; The Chiropractic Care of Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Retrospective Case Series; Joel Alcantara, James Davis; May 2010
- Sports and Spine Chiropractic: Fitness: How Chiropractic Can Help
- American Chiropractic Association: Keep Young Athletes Healthy and Fit
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