Now that golf clubs are put away and winter boots have replaced tennis shoes, it’s time to check in on how our bodies are holding up after the summer season of high activity. Long sunny days in Minnesota are revered as the most precious time of year to soak in all the golfing, hiking, canoeing, running and biking that can fit into the 4-month window we call summer. Along with all the ramped-up activity, comes its fair share of muscle strains, soreness, and general wear and tear. For some, a long soak in the tub is enough to set the body straight but for others, the need for more structured care is essential to heal strained muscles and reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
With the increase in popularity among professional athletes and weekend warriors, acupuncture and cupping have been gaining momentum as a go-to treatment for any and all aches and pains plaguing the body. Acupuncture has long been used as a therapy for reducing inflammation, increasing blood flow to muscles and surrounding tissues and relieving pain anywhere in the body.
Here are some of the most common sports conditions treated with acupuncture and cupping:
- Golfer’s/Tennis Elbow
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Knee Pain
- Neck and Shoulder pain
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Lower Back Pain
- Sciatica
- Tight Hamstrings
When seeking out this form of advanced treatment, look for a Licensed Acupuncturist that has a specialty in sports medicine and pain relief. Your treatment should not only focus on relieving any current injuries you may have but also on improving overall functionality of your body to perform better today and reduce the prospect of injuries tomorrow. What acupuncture offers is a treatment for healing your body while also reducing stress, improving sleep quality and boosting immunity.
This is the perfect time of year to ease up on training and focus on nourishing our minds and bodies. The best approach to staying healthy and fit is one that is focused on physical recovery as well as overall wellness. If your training regime doesn’t include acupuncture or cupping, you may be missing out on a whole new approach to staying in peak condition.
Other healing recommendations:
- Bathe in 2 cups of Epson salts 2-3 nights a week
- Take electrolytes daily for 3-4 weeks
- Apply a topical CBD cream for immediate pain relief
- Foam roll after intense exercise sessions
*Not intended to be medical advice, consult with your doctor before implementing these recommendations.
To learn more about our sports enhancing acupuncture treatments click here.