Sports Medicine
Acupuncture®
An integrative rehab technique backed by professional sports organizations + rehab specialists
EVALUATION & TREATMENT
THE PROCESS
01.
Postural + Functional Assessments.
During postural assessment, a wall grid and plum line is utilized to identify static postural deviations and muscle imbalances contributing to current pain and injury, or that may leave the individual susceptible to future injury if not addressed.
During functional assessment, individuals are observed during movement as well as range of motion, muscle testing, and orthopedic special testing. This allows us to identify and isolate the specific anatomical structures and tissues affected, and understand unique biomechanics and movement patterns that may contribute to injury or impair performance.
02.
Acupuncture + Dry Needling.
Acupuncture and motor point needling form the cornerstone of our sports medicine acupuncture approach. Standard acupuncture promotes circulation, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain by targeting specific acupuncture points associated with the injury. Motor point needling, on the other hand, focuses on the precise points where nerves enter muscles. This technique is crucial for neuromuscular re-education, as it helps restore normal muscle tone, relax tight areas, and improve muscle activation. Together, these needling methods promote tissue repair, modulate pain, and support optimal muscular function.
03.
Bodywork + Additional Therapies.
To further enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture, we incorporate myofascial release and other manual therapies, such as cupping, gua sha, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching. These techniques work together to release muscle tension, break up fascial adhesions, and improve joint mobility.
Other adjunct therapies such as infrared light therapy, kinesio-taping, graston technique and others may also be utilized to enhance treatment outcomes.
04.
Corrective Exercise.
At-home corrective exercise routines may be prescribed on a case-by-case basis to further correct postural and functional imbalances through stretching and strengthening protocols.
What is
Sports Medicine Acupuncture®
Sports Medicine Acupuncture® (SMA) is a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal care, pain, and rehabilitation, that blends ancient practices with modern biomechanical research and conventional rehab methods to address dysfunction before, during, and after injury occurs. The approach uses anatomical perspectives for assessment, diagnostics, and acupuncture therapy in order to relieve pain, treat postural imbalances, control inflammatory processes, and decrease rehabilitation time for acute and chronic pain and injury.
In a typical SMA session, the acupuncturist will perform a detailed assessment of joint mobility, muscle function, and posture. Using anatomical landmarks and functional movement testing, specific acupuncture points and motor points are chosen to release muscle tension, stimulate healing, and restore optimal range of motion. Techniques such as trigger point needling and dry needling may be incorporated, which are particularly effective in releasing tight or dysfunctional muscle tissue.
SMA also leverages the body’s neuromuscular system to facilitate proprioception and improve neuromuscular control, which is an essential component in sports and rehabilitation settings. In addition to addressing current injuries, sports medicine acupuncture can help prevent future injuries by correcting imbalances, enhancing coordination, and building resilience.
How does it differ
from traditional acupuncture?
The practice of Sports Medicine Acupuncture requires additional educational training after licensure, beyond the scope of general acupuncturists. Additional training includes over 350 hours of in-person education that covers advanced anatomical study with cadaver lab, postural assessment, functional assessment, motor point needling and additional advanced needling techniques, myofascial manual therapy, and corrective exercise instruction.
While traditional acupuncture focuses on balancing the body’s energy (Qi) through a network of meridians, SMA targets specific anatomical structures, such as muscles, tendons, and motor points, using detailed assessments and advanced needling techniques. Additionally, SMA often incorporates conventional treatment protocols for injury rehab, such as at-home exercises or proprioceptive activities that complement acupuncture sessions.
Certified Sports Medicine Acupuncture (C.SMA) practitioners have attained the highest level of instruction available for licensed acupuncturists in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of musculoskeletal pain, and make up the majority of acupuncturists working with professional athletes and sports organizations.
COMMON
QUESTIONS
How should I
prepare for treatment?
Answer.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wearing loose, comfortable clothing makes it easier for your practitioner to adequately evaluate posture and function, and will make it easier to access treatment areas, such as arms, legs, and back. However, we will provide sheets for draping to ensure privacy should we need to access additional areas.
Stay Hydrated: Being well-hydrated is important for overall health and can also support your acupuncture treatment. Drink water before and after your session to support your body’s healing processes.
Plan for Post-Treatment Relaxation: Acupuncture can leave you feeling a little sore as well as relaxed and slightly sleepy, so try to avoid scheduling intense activities immediately afterward. Give yourself time to rest and let your body absorb the benefits of the treatment.
How long
are treatments?
Answer.
SMA treatments range from 60-90 minutes, depending on the number of additional therapies included in the treatment.
Our standard follow-up treatments are 1 hour, however we also offer a 90-minute follow-up visit that includes extra time for additional bodywork.
When will I start seeing results?
Answer.
Many individuals begin seeing changes from treatment within 2-3 sessions, however depending on the injury and severity, it may take closer to 6-8 treatments to see results.
It is important to note that functional changes and increased range of motion are often noted within the first treatment, however outcomes such as postural modifications and pain reduction generally take much longer resolve.
What can I expect
after my session?
Answer.
It is common to feel sore after treatment, much like a good workout. Soreness generally resolves within a day or so.
Ready to Schedule?
Book a New Patient Consultation to get started.
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