Acupuncture is extremely useful in the treatment of sports injuries because it addresses two major issues associated with trauma: pain and inflammation. It can help to increase range of motion, decrease recovery and healing time, and strengthen the body as a whole. Acupuncture also improves local blood circulation, which can help with the delivery of nutrients to the site of injury.
Acupuncturists categorize sports injuries into two groups: acute injuries and chronic, unresolved conditions. Chronic injuries are sustained over time, while acute injuries occur suddenly and are immediately apparent. It is extremely important to assess both types of injuries before proceeding with any type of treatment. A full examination and proper diagnosis must be made, which generally incorporates some form of imaging such as x-rays or an MRI.
Acupuncture treatment should begin as soon as possible for acute injuries. The inflammatory processes that occur after an injury may present as heat, swelling, redness, and pain. Pain and inflammation signal the body to stop whatever activity is causing damage, but they can also slow down the healing process.
Acupuncture is effective in accelerating healing and, in the process, helps the body to avoid chronic, long term pain conditions by addressing injury immediately. It aids the body in repair by speeding up the breakdown and rebuilding of damaged cells and tissues.