For runners, chiropractic can be used for injury prevention because it emphasizes proper alignment of the spine and pelvis. The most common running-related injuries Ryan sees in his patients, which range from recreational runners to Ultra-Marathoners, and Tri-athlete winners, are plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, IT Band Syndrome, patella (knee) tracking problems and hip bursitis.
“Malalignment of the spine can cause unnecessary tension on one particular body part versus an equal distribution of pressure,” he says. “I can’t take care of anyone’s chronic IT band problem without making sure their pelvis is in as perfect alignment as it can be. Otherwise, it’ll continue to wear, tear, and put strain on that one particular body part.”
What Causes Improper Alignment?
Major causes of improper alignment include running in the same direction on the same course every day; running often slanted surfaces, such as a beach; and not replacing shoes every few hundred miles.
Fix these training errors that cause misalignment with a few simple tweaks:
- Vary your running surface—pavement, track, asphalt, grass, dirt, wood chips—a few times a week, and you’ll naturally run on different courses.
- Run as close to the water as possible when on the beach, as the sand tends to be more flat there.
- Buy two of the same type of running shoes, and switch between the pairs.
When in doubt, in addition to your monthly or weekly visits to massage therapy and cryotherapy, a visit in with your local chiropractor can help prevent injuries and keep you achieving your on course goals.