Sports medicine professionals recognize that pain and dysfunction can sideline athletes as much as any major injury. Publications in sports medicine journals describe acupuncture as a noninvasive therapy that may relieve pain and support recovery in common athletic injuries. A systematic review of case reports found that acupuncture has been used for conditions such as lateral meniscus tears, femoroacetabular impingement, ganglion cysts, sports hernia and even the yips. The review noted that athletes often experienced short-term pain relief and improved function following needling treatments, suggesting acupuncture may help reduce muscle guarding, stimulate healing and complement rehabilitation.

However, the evidence base remains limited. Most of the published literature consists of case reports and series, so the authors caution against drawing firm conclusions about performance enhancement. Instead, they emphasize using acupuncture as part of a comprehensive injury management strategy.

At New Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we integrate acupuncture into care plans for athletes dealing with sprains, strains and overuse injuries. Our doctors perform a thorough assessment and then use fine needles to stimulate local circulation and reduce pain, alongside manual therapies, rehabilitative exercises and modalities like shockwave therapy or blood flow restriction training. We also counsel athletes on proper warm-ups, mobility drills and recovery habits. By combining acupuncture with evidence-based chiropractic care, we aim to help athletes return to their sport quickly and safely without relying on medications.