SPORTS INJURY & PAIN RELIEF
Acupuncture for Sports Injuries and Chronic Pain in Sarasota
For 19 years, Dr. Zhizhong Nan treated Denver Broncos players through the demands of NFL seasons. Today he brings that experience to Sarasota’s golfers, tennis and pickleball players, runners, boaters, and anyone living with pain.
Request an Appointment Call 941-888-9888
Pain We Treat
- Back pain, sciatica, and spinal stenosis
- Knee pain: arthritis, swelling, and strain
- Shoulder pain: rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder
- Neck pain and tension headaches
- Tendonitis: tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, wrist, and Achilles
- Hip pain and IT band tightness
- Plantar fasciitis and foot pain
- Sprains, strains, and slow-healing injuries
- Nerve pain and numbness
Built for Active Sarasota
Pickleball, golf, tennis, and fishing keep Sarasota moving, and they are hard on knees, shoulders, elbows, and backs. Dr. Nan treats the injury and the patterns behind it, so you can get back to the game you love.
- Pickleball and tennis: elbow, shoulder, knee, and Achilles strain
- Golf: low back, wrist, and golfer’s elbow
- Running and walking: knee, hip, and plantar fasciitis
- Boating and fishing: shoulder, back, and wrist strain
Exploring Options Before Surgery?
Some of our patients come in after being told surgery may be needed. Acupuncture can be part of a conservative care plan alongside your physician and physical therapist. Dr. Nan will tell you honestly whether he thinks acupuncture is a good fit, and when you should see another specialist.
Always talk with your physician before canceling a recommended procedure.
How Dr. Nan Treats Pain
- Assessment. He examines the injury, reviews any MRI or X-ray reports you bring, and looks at how you move.
- Targeted treatment. Acupuncture is combined, as needed, with cupping, NeuroAcupuncture, point injection therapy, or herbal formulas.
- A clear plan. You’ll know how many visits to expect and what to do at home between them.
Many patients notice a change within the first few sessions; results vary from person to person.
Sports Medicine Experience
- Denver Broncos team acupuncturist, 19 years
- Colorado Rapids (MLS), 2.5 years
- U.S. Olympic taekwondo and figure skating athletes, Olympic Training Center, Colorado Springs
- Dean of the Doctoral Program, Colorado Chinese Medicine University
Questions
Does acupuncture hurt? The needles are very thin. Most people feel a light tap or a dull ache, and many relax or fall asleep during treatment.
How many treatments will I need? It depends on the injury and how long you’ve had it. Dr. Nan will give you an estimate at your first visit.
Can I keep playing during treatment? Often yes. Dr. Nan will tell you what to rest and what’s safe to keep doing.
Should I bring my MRI or X-ray? Yes. Bring any reports and a list of your medications.
Book Your Visit
2190 Gulf Gate Drive, Sarasota, FL 34231 ยท Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM