Playing any type of sport can take a toll on one’s body. In order to perform at one’s peak, it is important to keep the spine in proper alignment. It can make the difference between winning and losing. It can also mean the difference between enduring a back injury or walking off the field pain-free.
The NUCCA technique, performed by many upper cervical chiropractors, is a key component to having a healthy neck and spine. In fact, it may be able to help athletes perform better overall – whether in the game or not. For optimum performance of the body, proper spinal alignment is of utmost importance. Why is this the case?
Body Balance and Sports
If the vertebrae contained in the upper neck area are misaligned, they can wreak havoc on the entire body. It only takes a misalignment of ¼ of a millimeter to cause the weight of the head to shift, placing undue stress on the muscles, bones, tissues, and organs leading them to break down. If these body parts struggle under more weight than they are meant to hold for any length of time, tissue damage may be the end result. This is referred to as spinal pathology and leads to a degradation in joints, reflexes, and nerves. By seeking the care of an upper cervical chiropractor, a person may be able to get help to improve his or her posture. As a result, benefits may transfer to the field or court. The risks of getting hurt during play may also decrease.
Waters and Boone (1988) suggest that three elements of spinal misalignments, leg length imbalance, cervical syndrome, and pelvic torsion, play an important role in the specific and overall muscle balance in dancers. The importance of eliminating the elements of spinal misalignment prior to athletic or physical performance is critical to both static and dynamic balance.
Central Nervous System, Regulation, and Functions
The science of Chiropractic is founded on the premise that a proper nerve supply is essential to controlling and regulating the functioning of the human body. The central nervous system controls every activity in the body by sending and receiving nerve messages and is protected by the bones of the spine called vertebrae. When the spine is in its optimal structural position, the nerves are protected and optimal communication exists between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. The vertebra of the spine is susceptible to certain stresses and forces, which can cause them to lose their proper structural position. These minor misalignments of the spine referred to as “subluxations” cause nerve interference and weaken the entire structure of the spine. Athletic training can often jar and misalign the spinal column because the spine is at the center of the body. Impact on the legs, feet, head, shoulders, and torso often radiates to the spine. Doctors of Chiropractic detect and correct vertebral subluxations by physically adjusting the spine. This restores the spine and nervous system to a more optimal level of function, which maximizes the body’s performance and healing potential.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Sports Performance
This is not a new form of chiropractic. In fact, it has been around since the 1930s. Anyone who engages in athletics can benefit from chiropractic checkups to ensure that their spine is balanced and free from structural stress and subluxations. When the spinal column is brought into balance and alignment, the body’s nervous system and body biomechanics (posture) are maximized.
“Posture affects and moderates every physiological function, from breathing to nervous system function, and despite the considerable evidence that posture affects physiology and function, the significant influence of posture on health is not addressed by most physicians” Lennon, J. (1994, Jan.) American Journal of Pain Management, Influence of Posture
At NUCCA Wellness Clinic of Chicago, we focus on making sure the top neck bones are in proper alignment. If they are not, we use a low force correction that encourages the vertebrae to move back into place naturally. Nerve function and proper posture can be restored, and the body can begin to perform much better, improving one’s health and one’s game.
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Dr. Young Chung of NUCCA Wellness Clinic of Chicago, with a location in Chicago and a 2nd location in Wheeling is an Upper Cervical Specialist trained by the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA). His upper cervical clinic also serves Northbrook, Long Grove, Lincolnshire, Buffalo Grove and Vernon Hills. He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines and other headaches, whiplash injuries, post-concussion syndrome. This type of care has also shown benefits for athletic performance and pregnancy outcomes. More information can be found on our website at http://www.NUCCAwellnessChicago.com/
