Unlocking Cutaneous Stimulation for Pain Management in Athletes: A Chiropractic CEU Guide Posted on Sep 21, 2023
Introduction
CCEDseminars | The World-wide Choice for Online Chiropractic Continuing Education!Pain: An Athlete's Greatest Hurdle
Pain is the most frequent reason athletes seek medical advice. Sore muscles and joints can not only disrupt day-to-day life but also impede athletic performance and training. But what if there was a way to manage this pain more effectively, offering a new avenue for chiropractic continuing education units (CEUs)? In this blog post, we will delve into cutaneous stimulation, a method that can significantly relieve pain in athletes.
The Complexity of Pain
Pain is not just a physical sensation—it's a complex interplay of mood, memories, genetics, and expectations, along with the noxious stimulus or nociception. The conventional methods like NSAIDs and narcotics come with their own set of risks and side effects, making them less desirable for athletes who prioritize performance.
Correcting Structural Factors
Chiropractic care often involves addressing structural issues that contribute to pain, such as poor posture, stability, and motor control. However, this approach often falls short during the competitive season when athletes are less able to focus on long-term structural improvements.
The Gate Control Theory
A more localized and immediate approach is through cutaneous stimulation, a technique that can modify the pain signals sent to the brain. Introduced in 1965, the gate control theory suggests that larger, faster “A-beta” fibers can be stimulated through the skin to override the pain signals sent by smaller "C" fibers.
Mechanical vs. Chemical Modalities
When it comes to cutaneous stimulation, there are two primary methods: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical approaches include modalities like massage and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), while chemical methods employ the use of topical analgesics.
Topical Analgesics
Various topical analgesics like menthol, capsaicin, and methyl salicylate offer a chemical approach to pain relief. They operate through different pathways but are generally effective in mitigating pain when applied to the skin.
A Multifaceted Strategy
The choice of topical analgesics can differ among athletes based on their personal preferences and specific needs. A newer approach is to combine mechanical and chemical methods for enhanced pain relief. For example, using a topical analgesic as a medium for massage or IASTM can be particularly effective.
Combining Kinesiology Tape with Topical Analgesics
Another innovative approach involves applying kinesiology tape along with a topical analgesic, offering a longer-lasting and more versatile solution.