Editor's Note: While the immediate future of youth, amateur and professional sports remains uncertain due to COVID-19, one thing is certain: they will return. When they do, prevention and treatment will be even more vital due to deconditioning and other factors. In other words, sports chiropractors will be needed more than ever.
1. Develop Sports-Related Expertise
If you have a heart issue, would you rather go to a general practitioner or a cardiologist? If you need dental surgery, are you OK with your dentist doing it, or would you prefer to be referred to an oral surgeon? The obvious answers to these questions highlight the importance of developing sports-related expertise as a chiropractic professional.
It's not enough to tell patients research indicates sports chiropractic can help improve their performance and aid in injury recovery. You also need to show them you have the education and experience necessary to provide these types of benefits.
One way to achieve this goal is to earn your specialization in sports chiropractic. Many schools offer this option, with some providing courses you can take online. Another option is to dedicate more time in your practice to treating athletes and physically active individuals. Learn firsthand how to help this demographic with their specific concerns.
2. Start Working With Kids
"Why do most good athletes have to make it to a D1 college or the pros before they get good care?" wonders Terry Weyman DC, CCSP, sports chiropractor at Pepperdine University and team chiropractor for USA Taekwondo. His answer? They shouldn't. That's why he recommends individuals interested in getting involved in sports chiropractic start to work with these younger athletes.
"There are thousands of teams out there that would love to have a doc helping them," says Dr. Weyman. This includes kids involved with American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), Pop Warner Youth Football, Little League baseball and Summer League youth basketball. Not only will you likely get some of them as patients, but teaching these youngsters the importance of chiropractic also is knowledge they will carry with them for life. And as Dr. Weyman says, "You never know where they will end up."
3. Offer Sports Treatment Packages
To get more athletes interested in your services, thus building your sports chiropractic practice, offer packages that are tailored specifically to them. As an example, if your goal is to work with athletes who play football, market a "training enhancement package" in the summer, when most teams are preparing for active play. In September, switch to an "injury recovery package," appealing to those who have been hurt on the field.
A sports-based treatment package could also include other modalities offered at your office known to aid in sports performance and recovery. For instance, research indicates massage helps improve ankle joint strength and flexibility. A strong, flexible ankle is necessary to play a variety of sports such as basketball and soccer. If you have a therapist in your office, their services can be included in your package.
4. Network With Community Teams
"If you want to be a sports chiropractor, you need to start volunteering your time and network with your community sports teams," says Norman Eng, DC, team chiropractor for Atlanta United FC. "Pick a sport and get to know the staff, the coaches, and the parents."
Making these connections can boost your sports chiropractic career by building trust with those who are fully invested in the athletes you want to work with most. Let these individuals get to know you so they feel more comfortable with your services. "With hard work, patience, and time, you will be the go-to sports chiropractor before you know it," says Dr. Eng.
5. Start the Conversation
Finally, whether your goal is to work with a local community sports team or your dream is to treat the pros, it's important to let your intentions be known. Start a conversation with the decision-makers so they know your desire to work with their players.
Mary Collings, DC, team chiropractor for the NHL's Dallas Stars and NBA's Dallas Mavericks, reveals that she approached the Stars' trainer with her credentials and continued to send him her CV, mentioning a few of the NFL players she had also treated. The trainer eventually responded by sending her some players, and she's been working with the team since.
You may not get the green light immediately, but sharing your interest and desire to work with the team at least plants the seed. Water it regularly by offering your services and, with enough hard work and luck, you'll be able to watch it grow.
Click here for more information about Spencer Baron, DC, DACBSP.