Chiropractors becoming the MVP of high school athletes

Albuquerque, New Mexico | High school athletes across the nation are increasingly seeking medical advice and rehab from an unexpected source: chiropractors. This growing trend has left many wondering if we've entered a parallel universe where cracking spines is the solution to severe sports injuries. As the line between conventional medicine and alternative therapies blurs, parents, players, and even coaches are turning to chiropractors, who are seizing the opportunity to expand their scope of practice.

Chiropractors, licensed primarily for spinal manipulation, are now finding themselves playing the role of rehab specialists. According to their licensing guidelines, their expertise lies in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, primarily involving the spine. While this might be sufficient for treating mild strains and back pain, the idea of entrusting them with serious sports injuries seems as ludicrous as a quarterback performing heart surgery during halftime.

One high school player, James Spinalson confessed, "I just wanted to get out of practice for a few days, so I figured a visit to the chiropractor would give me the perfect excuse. They accept anyone so I just needed to make an appointment. Anything beats running suicides, right?"

Surprisingly, some state coaches associations are welcoming this twist in the high school sports community. One representative exclaimed, "Chiropractors have always been known for their innovative approaches to healing. Who needs physical therapists and certified athletic trainers when you can have someone crack your back, write an excused letter and fix all your problems? It's like having a “Get out of practice card.”

However, not everyone is embracing this new development. Athletic trainers, who have dedicated years to studying human anatomy, physiology, and sports medicine, are sounding the alarm. One athletic trainer said, "We have the knowledge, experience, and qualifications to provide comprehensive care to athletes. Chiropractors simply do not possess the same level of training in areas such as concussion management, emergency care, and rehabilitation protocols. It's concerning to see players put their health at risk due to these misguided trends."

While the concept of chiropractors becoming the go-to option for high school sports rehab may sound like a punchline to a bad joke, the reality is far from humorous. With players and parents increasingly seeking advice from chiropractors, it's crucial to remember that their scope of practice is limited. While they may provide temporary relief from practice for the weaker athletes, entrusting them with serious injuries can lead to misguided treatment and potentially harmful consequences.

As the debate rages on, it's essential for athletes and their families to seek guidance from qualified professionals who possess the necessary expertise in sports medicine. Let's not allow the cracks of a chiropractor's table to drown out the sound of reason and evidence-based care. After all, when it comes to the health and well-being of our young athletes, we should be relying on those who have the most comprehensive knowledge of the human body, not just a knack for spine-cracking theatrics.