Running is excellent for the body, and taking up running as an extracurricular activity is a great form of exercise. However, the more you run, the more you are placed at risk of suffering an injury. One way to reduce your risk of an injury is to take a trip to a chiropractor. Chiropractors are often seen as professionals who simply treat the back. In reality, the treatments that chiropractors provide can benefit the entire body. Patients who see a chiropractor can develop a better posture that allows for them to run more safely and efficiently. Chiropractors are also trained in muscle work.
Improving Your Spine Alignment
One of the first things that a chiropractor will seek to accomplish is to make sure that your spine is aligned. When your spine is out of alignment, other muscles of the body are allowed to weaken. When muscles are weakened, they are more likely to become injured. Also, a misalignment will cause your body to not move as efficiently, which will not only increase the risk of injury, but will also cause you to become tired more quickly as you run. Fortunately, chiropractors can perform manual adjustments to get your spine back into alignment. Chiropractors can also help you improve your range of motion. Click here for info about how improper spine alignment negatively affects other parts of the body.
Changing How You Run
Chiropractors might ask you to make changes to how you run to improve your spinal alignment. They'll likely ask you to try to run on a variety of surfaces. If you often run on a treadmill, try running outside. If there is a beach nearby, spend the day running there, and run as close to the water as possible because the sand tends to be flatter there.
Wearing The Right Footwear
Another thing that a chiropractor will do is help you find ideal shoes both for running and walking. Depending on the shape of your foot, you may need need additional support. Also, your shoes will need to be well-fitted both so you can run more effectively and so you are less likely to trip. You should also have two pairs of running shoes and switch between them.
When To See A Chiropractor
It is a good idea to see a chiropractor at least once before you start your running career. However, even if you have already seen a chiropractor, you should also schedule an appointment for another visit if you are experiencing: