Injury Prevention & Performance: Why Athletes Choose Chiropractic in South Brisbane
In the dynamic world of competitive sports, athletes continuously push their limits which makes injury prevention and peak performance non-negotiable. For those in South Brisbane, sports chiropractic care offers a strategic, evidence-based edge to maintain optimal musculoskeletal health and enhance athletic potential.
1. Preventing Injuries: Chiropractic as a Proactive Measure
Effective for common athletic injuries
In a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, chiropractic treatments significantly improved outcomes for recurrent ankle sprains. Showing better pain relief and functional recovery compared to ultrasound therapy. It also enhanced grip strength in judo athletes after cervical spine manipulation [1].Athlete satisfaction and trust in care
A qualitative study of elite athletes in Canada found they actively sought chiropractic care not only for injury management, but also as a form of proactive maintenance. Athletes reported high levels of trust in their sports chiropractors and appreciated the focus on performance and longevity [2].
2. Boosting Athletic Performance: What the Research Says
Specific performance outcomes show promise
A pilot study involving university baseball players demonstrated that after 14 weeks of chiropractic care focused on the upper cervical spine, participants experienced gains in muscle strength, long jump distance, and circulation - pointing to potential physiological benefits [3].Short-term performance changes observed
A 2019 systematic review on spinal manipulation in asymptomatic adults found some improvements in measures like range of motion and basketball free-throw accuracy. However, most results were small and inconsistent, with authors calling for further research [4].
3. Chiropractic vs. Strength Training: What Evn One Adjustment Can Do
Dr. Heidi Haavik’s neurophysiology research offers a compelling look at how a single spinal adjustment can produce effects similar to three weeks of strength training:
Neuromuscular impact in a single session
In a randomized study measuring changes in specific neurological waves and reflexes, participants receiving a chiropractic adjustment showed dramatic neuromuscular enhancements: nearly 60% increases in electrical activity, a 16% rise in force output, and a 45% boost in cortical drive to muscles - effects that mirror those seen after three weeks of dedicated strength training (8)Why this matters for athletes
These results suggest athletics-calibre muscle activation and strength may be triggered rapidly, making chiropractic adjustments a useful tool for peak performance tuning, especially helpful when schedules are tight or recovery is prioritised over building strength from the ground up.
This doesn’t mean care replaces hard training, but it highlights how chiropractic can be strategically integrated into performance plans:
Efficiency in recovery phases
When heavy training isn't feasible (e.g., during injury recovery or tapering), chiropractic may help preserve muscle drive and neurological readiness.Support during high-volume phases
Athletes juggling training blocks, competition, and travel might use adjustments to maintain neuromuscular ability without overloading the body.
4. How Athletes in South Brisbane Are Using Chiropractic Today
Chiropractic care has become a go-to tool for athletes not only because of what the research says, but because of how it integrates seamlessly into their training, recovery, and performance systems.
Here’s how athletes are using chiropractic in real time:
Prehab, not just rehab
Sports chiropractors identify joint restrictions, movement faults, or muscle imbalances before symptoms occur, helping prevent overuse and compensatory injuries through proactive care.Recovery support
Spinal manipulation has been shown to influence neuromuscular control and central pain modulation pathways [5][6]. Many athletes include adjustments as part of their recovery strategy to help reduce soreness and restore full range of motion.Nervous system optimisation
Adjustments can impact sensorimotor integration, joint position sense, and reaction time [7]. Athletes under regular chiropractic care report feeling more coordinated and “connected” during performance.Integrated care teams
Chiropractors are increasingly part of multidisciplinary athlete care teams, working alongside coaches, physios, and strength professionals. This team approach allows for more holistic decision-making and individualised support.
Conclusion
Athletes in South Brisbane are choosing chiropractic not just for pain relief, but for its ability to support recovery, prevent injuries, and potentially improve neuromuscular efficiency. While research continues to evolve, current evidence and real-world use suggest a valuable role for chiropractic care in the performance space.
Looking for a sports chiropractor in South Brisbane?
At Salt Chiropractic, we help athletes - from gym-goers & weekend warriors all the way to elite competitors to move better, feel stronger, reduce injury and stay in the game longer. Book your consultation today and see what a tailored care plan can do for your performance.
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References
Miners, A.L. (2010). Chiropractic treatment and the enhancement of sport performance: a narrative literature review. J Can Chiropr Assoc, 54(4), 210–221.
Gísladóttir, M.A., et al. (2022). Experiences of elite athletes with chiropractic care: A qualitative study. Chiropr Man Therap, 30, 25.
Lauro, A., & Mouch, W. (1991). Chiropractic effects on athletic ability. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 14(3), 173–176.
Clar, C., et al. (2019). Spinal manipulative therapy and sports performance in asymptomatic people: a systematic review. Chiropr Man Therap, 27, 29.
Haavik, H., & Murphy, B. (2012). Subclinical neck pain and the effects of cervical manipulation on elbow joint position sense. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 35(9), 686–693.
Bialosky, J.E., et al. (2009). Spinal manipulative therapy–induced hypoalgesia: a neurophysiological explanation. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 32(6), 432–446.
Haavik, H., & Murphy, B. (2011). The role of spinal manipulation in addressing disordered sensorimotor integration and altered motor control. J Electromyogr Kinesiol, 21(2), 368–376.
Haavik H. & colleagues. “Changes in H‑reflex and V‑waves following spinal manipulation.” Experimental Brain Research, 233(4):1165–1173.