There’s more to the story. After two years of feeling sorry for myself, my wife introduced me to an instrument-assisted soft tissue technique that would allow me to administer treatment for soft tissue injuries using only one hand and no manipulation.

It’s an important aspect of chiropractic that the profession incorporates numerous techniques, some of which can be performed with minimal exertion on the part of the chiropractor. In this case, with only one hand.

Soon after I learned the technique, I was called into the training room at the University of Miami to treat a young running back who had been thrown out of a convertible on Interstate 95, sustaining low back injuries. After he had received a series of treatments including manipulation, heat, ice, medications, exercises and more, I was asked to perform this soft tissue technique with him. 

For a year, he had been unable to run or bend forward more than 30 degrees. I treated him using the IASTM [Graston Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization] technique and within 20 minutes, he was able to touch the floor and had no pain. It took three treatments for him to be able to practice in pads and run. After the sixth treatment, he was playing in the games again, all without surgery. He was voted the MVP [Most Valuable Player] in the Orange Bowl game that year, drafted by an NFL team and played in the European League that year where again he was named the MVP. I did nothing more than treat him such that he could train and do the things he does best. Knowing that I might have played any part in his recovery was an incredible experience. I now teach Graston Technique, an advanced soft tissue technique referred to as Functional and Kinetic Treatment with Rehabilitation, Provocation and Motion (FAKTR-PM). I also teach the Knee section in several CCSP [Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician] programs.

Can you recall another highlight from your sports chiropractic career?

During the Orange Bowl National Championship Game between the University of Miami and Nebraska in the mid-1980’s, I was summoned from the stands to come look at a defensive back who had been injured during warm-ups. He had hurt his back and was unable to run. I was paged while sitting in the stands over the loud speaker. Several people heard my name but I did not. When I arrived on the field to assess him, I was given 30 seconds by the orthopedic surgeon. I simply placed him on the bench and provided manipulation of his low back and sacroiliac joints bilaterally. Following the adjustment, he was able to get up and run, all without pain. He blocked a punt during the game, had a terrific game and was drafted by an NFL team. Playing any part in helping an athlete achieve his or her goals and achieve their potential at any level is an incredible feeling. 

Any closing thoughts?

If you want to make a difference in the lives of boys and girls, men and women of all ages who participate in sports, as well as in your own life, become a chiropractor. You will have all the tools and knowledge you need to make their dreams and yours a reality.

Daniel Redwood, DC, the interviewer, is Editor-in-Chief of Health Insights Today.