By Dr. Zhizhong Nan, DOM, AP · Acupuncture Healing Works
In 1995, I was working with the Colorado Rapids as part of a team of health professionals: medical doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, nutritionists and massage therapists. I was the only acupuncturist. That same year, I began working with the Denver Broncos, and for the next 19 years, caring for athletes and their recovery was a central part of my work.
It started with word of mouth
My work with the Broncos didn’t begin with a contract. It began with trust. A few people close to the team tried acupuncture, felt better, and told others. One day a player with a painful injury agreed to give it a try, and he became my first patient from the team. Over time, more players came in, and eventually I was caring for much of the roster.
What I treated
Professional football is hard on the body. Most of my work involved the injuries you would expect: knee injuries, ankle sprains, muscle strains, shoulder injuries, bruises and contusions, and hand and wrist injuries. I also supported players recovering from concussions, working alongside the team’s medical staff.
From injury care to routine care
Something interesting happened over the years. Many players kept coming even when they weren’t injured. They told me they were sleeping better, had more energy, and felt more focused, so acupuncture became part of their regular routine. For years, on the night before the team left for an away game, I treated players at the team hotel.
What everyday athletes can learn
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to take your recovery seriously. Here’s what those years taught me:
- Recovery is a team effort. I always worked alongside physicians, trainers and physical therapists. Acupuncture can be one part of a complete plan that includes proper medical evaluation, rehabilitation, exercise and rest.
- Don’t wait for small problems to become big ones. The best athletes paid attention to pain that kept coming back. Symptoms that return deserve an assessment.
- Make recovery part of your schedule. Rest and a gradual return to activity are not optional, even for professionals.
- Treat the person, not just the painful area. Sleep, energy, stress and daily habits all affect how well the body recovers.
Where acupuncture fits
Research supports acupuncture for certain pain conditions, including chronic low-back pain, neck pain and knee osteoarthritis. For example, the American College of Physicians includes acupuncture among the non-drug options in its guideline for low back pain. Results vary, and pain relief should not be confused with proof that an injury has fully healed.
For an active person, the goal is practical: greater comfort during everyday movement and a safe return to the activities you enjoy. A golfer with recurring back discomfort, a pickleball player with elbow pain and a runner with knee symptoms may each need a different approach. The location of the pain is only part of the picture. Your activity level, movement habits, previous injuries and recovery time also matter.
Bringing that experience to Sarasota
At Acupuncture Healing Works, I bring what I learned caring for professional athletes to patients who want to move more comfortably and stay active in the things they love, whether that’s golf, pickleball, running, or keeping up with the grandchildren.
To discuss whether acupuncture may fit your care plan, call 941-888-9888 or request an appointment online.