Tag: #VectorSpineAndSport

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From Weekend Warrior to Everyday Aches: Why Your Pain Might Be More Than Just Overuse

Weekend athlete

When the Weekend Catches Up With You

You know the feeling. It’s Monday morning, and after a weekend of hiking the Wasatch, dominating your pickleball league, or just getting a little too enthusiastic about yardwork—you wake up stiff, sore, and wondering if you’ve suddenly aged 10 years overnight.

Welcome to the world of the weekend warrior—the hardworking adults who give 100% at their job all week and then give 120% on the field, trail, or court over the weekend. While staying active is vital for your health, sudden bursts of activity after a sedentary week can lead to microtears, joint strain, and inflammation that your body isn’t quite ready for.

That’s where Vector Spine and Sport steps in. We help weekend warriors recover from overuse injuries, chronic aches, and those “mystery pains” that sneak up after an intense workout.

Common Weekend Warrior Injuries

It’s not just elite athletes who get hurt. The truth is, weekend warriors experience many of the same injuries—just without the pro trainers and recovery teams. Some of the most common injuries we treat at our Murray chiropractic clinic include:

  • Low back pain and stiffness from lifting, running, or improper form
  • Shoulder pain from throwing, swimming, or weight training
  • Knee pain and tendonitis from hiking, cycling, or running
  • Tennis and golfer’s elbow from gripping and repetitive strain
  • Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain from long hours on your feet

Each of these conditions shares a common thread: muscle imbalance, repetitive stress, or poor biomechanics—things chiropractic care and shockwave therapy directly address.

How Chiropractic Care Helps You Bounce Back

At Vector Spine and Sport, chiropractic treatment isn’t just about “cracking your back.” It’s about improving your body’s movement and mechanics so you can perform better and recover faster.

Dr. Jacob Reesor performs targeted spinal and joint adjustments to restore motion, reduce inflammation, and relieve nerve pressure that contributes to stiffness and pain. Adjustments can also help improve flexibility, coordination, and posture—all critical for preventing recurring injuries.

Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments improve neuromuscular control, reduce pain, and can enhance athletic performance. A 2022 study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation helps improve joint function and proprioception—your body’s awareness of movement and position.

In short: Chiropractic care keeps your body moving the way it was designed to move.

Shockwave Therapy: Your Secret Recovery Weapon

If your pain has lingered for weeks—or even months—after rest, stretching, or massage, you might be dealing with a chronic soft-tissue condition like tendonitis or fascia irritation.

Shockwave therapy (EPAT) is one of the most effective non-invasive tools for these stubborn injuries. It works by delivering acoustic pressure waves deep into the tissue, triggering the body’s natural repair mechanisms. This increases blood flow, stimulates cell regeneration, and breaks down scar tissue.

Clinical research has shown impressive results:

  • A 2023 meta-analysis in Frontiers in Immunology found that shockwave therapy significantly improves pain and function for conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles and patellar tendinopathy (PMC10468604).
  • Another study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that 90% of patients with chronic patellar tendinopathy improved with shockwave compared to only 50% with conservative care.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we use both focused and radial shockwave technology, allowing us to treat both surface-level and deep-tissue injuries. Most patients notice improvement within just a few sessions.

Why Combining Chiropractic and Shockwave Works Best

Here’s the secret sauce: chiropractic and shockwave work best together.
While chiropractic care restores alignment and improves movement patterns, shockwave accelerates tissue healing at the cellular level. This one-two punch helps you heal faster, move better, and reduce your risk of reinjury—without relying on medications or surgery.

How to Prevent Future Weekend Warrior Injuries

The best injury is the one you never get. Here are Dr. Reesor’s top prevention tips for weekend warriors:

  • Warm up properly. A 5–10 minute dynamic warm-up can make a huge difference.
  • Build strength gradually. Don’t go from couch to competition in one weekend.
  • Stay hydrated. Muscles and joints function best when properly hydrated.
  • Get adjusted regularly. Prevent stiffness and poor mechanics from setting you back.
  • Recover like a pro. Use shockwave, laser, and stretching to keep your body tuned up.

Ready to Feel Better and Move Better?

You don’t have to let nagging pain or stiffness keep you off the court—or the trail. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury or trying to prevent one, the team at Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah is here to help you get back to doing what you love—safely and pain-free.

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Understanding Auto Injuries and Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Auto injury

Even a “minor” fender-bender can do more damage than you think. In the moments after a collision, your body releases adrenaline and cortisol—stress hormones that mask pain and inflammation. You may walk away feeling fine, only to wake up days later with neck stiffness, headaches, or sharp back pain. This is why getting checked by a chiropractor after an auto accident is so important.

Research supports early care. A 2008 review published in Spine Journal found that delayed evaluation and treatment often lead to slower healing and chronic symptoms. Another study showed that untreated or delayed whiplash injuries can cause persistent pain and movement limitations lasting years (PubMed). At Vector Spine and Sport, we often see patients who wish they had come in sooner—because catching these injuries early often means shorter recovery times and better long-term outcomes.

How Chiropractic Care Helps After a Car Accident

Chiropractic care plays a central role in restoring movement and reducing pain after an accident. Instead of masking symptoms with painkillers, we address the root cause—the mechanical and soft tissue injuries that occur during impact.

At Vector Spine and Sport, chiropractic treatment after an auto accident focuses on realigning the spine, restoring joint mobility, and reducing inflammation. Adjustments can relieve pressure on irritated nerves, improve circulation, and promote healing in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Studies show chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation, improve range of motion, and prevent long-term degenerative changes in the spine (PMC).

Unlike many quick-fix treatments, chiropractic care is non-invasive, drug-free, and customized to each patient. We often pair spinal adjustments with techniques such as soft tissue therapy, deep tissue laser, and shockwave therapy, depending on your specific injuries. The goal is simple: relieve pain, restore function, and get you moving again without unnecessary medications or surgery.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your first visit at Vector Spine and Sport begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Jacob Reesor will discuss your accident, symptoms, and medical history to understand the full picture. This is followed by a detailed physical examination, including orthopedic and neurological tests, to pinpoint problem areas. If needed, imaging like X-rays or MRIs may be recommended to rule out fractures or disc injury.

Once we know what’s going on, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed to get you out of pain and back to your normal activities as quickly as possible. This might include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, laser or shockwave treatment, and exercises you can do at home to strengthen the injured areas. Each plan is tailored to your body’s needs—no cookie-cutter care, no unnecessary visits.

How Utah’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Works

If you’re worried about cost, here’s the good news: in Utah, your auto insurance covers your medical care after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. This is called Personal Injury Protection, or PIP coverage.

PIP is included with every auto insurance policy in Utah and provides at least $3,000 in medical coverage per person. It pays for necessary treatments like chiropractic care, physical therapy, imaging, and rehabilitation. Whether you caused the accident or were hit by someone else, you’re eligible to use your PIP benefits for recovery.

That means when you visit Vector Spine and Sport after an accident, you won’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs. We’ll work directly with your insurance company to handle billing so you can focus on getting better. If your care exceeds PIP limits, we can also work with your attorney or help coordinate with additional coverage options.

Common Auto-Related Injuries We Treat

Auto accidents can affect nearly every part of the body, but the most common injuries we see at Vector Spine and Sport include:

  • Whiplash and neck pain from sudden impact
  • Low back pain from seatbelt torque or spinal compression
  • Headaches caused by neck strain or nerve irritation
  • Shoulder and knee injuries from seatbelt restraint or impact
  • Soft tissue damage leading to stiffness and muscle spasms

Each injury is unique, and our goal is to treat both the pain and the underlying dysfunction to prevent long-term issues.

Getting Back on the Road to Recovery

If you’ve been in an auto accident, even if you feel “okay,” schedule a check-up. Some injuries take time to appear, and early intervention makes a world of difference. Chiropractic care can reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent chronic problems before they start.

At Vector Spine and Sport, our team is experienced in working with auto injury cases and understands how to document and treat your condition effectively. We’ll help you navigate your PIP coverage, coordinate with other providers if needed, and get you on the path to healing—without the stress of unexpected bills.

Don’t wait until your pain becomes a problem. Reach out today for a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.

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Whiplash: The Symptoms You Need to Know After a Car Accident

Whiplash injury

A sudden jolt. A sharp pain. In the aftermath of a car accident, the rush of adrenaline can often mask the initial symptoms of injuries like whiplash. Yet, understanding the signs of this common yet frequently misunderstood condition is crucial for anyone involved in an auto collision.

Understanding Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. While most associated with rear-end car accidents, whiplash can result from sports injuries, falls, and other traumatic events.

Identifying the Symptoms

Whiplash symptoms may not appear immediately, often developing within 24 hours post-accident. Key indicators include:

  1. Neck Pain and Stiffness: This is the most common symptom, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
  2. Headaches: Often starting at the base of the skull and radiating towards the forehead.
  3. Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness or vertigo can accompany a whiplash injury.
  4. Blurred Vision: Temporary visual disturbances may occur.
  5. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired can be a sign of whiplash or other post-accident stress responses.
  6. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus): Some individuals report a ringing sensation in their ears following an injury.
  7. Concentration and Memory Problems: Difficulties with focus, memory, and irritability are less common but significant symptoms.

The Path to Recovery

Recovery from whiplash varies, with many finding relief within a few weeks, while others experience lingering symptoms. Early intervention is key. Steps to aid recovery include:

  • Seeking Immediate Medical Attention: A healthcare professional can assess the injury and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
  • Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors specialize in treating auto injury-related conditions like whiplash, offering treatments that support the body’s natural healing process.
  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can restore neck mobility and strength.
  • Rest and Ice: Initially, rest and ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.

The Importance of Prompt Care

Ignoring whiplash symptoms can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are paramount in preventing long-term issues and ensuring a full recovery.

Conclusion

If you’ve been in a car accident, vigilance in monitoring your health in the days following is essential. Recognizing the symptoms of whiplash and seeking prompt medical care, including specialized chiropractic treatment, can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Remember, the impact of a collision isn’t just about the damage to your vehicle; it’s about the potential unseen injuries to your body. Prioritize your health; let us at Vector Spine and Sport support you through your recovery.

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he Comprehensive Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Overall Wellness

Chiropractic care is often thought of as a solution for back pain, but its benefits extend far beyond the spine. This holistic approach to health care not only alleviates various forms of pain but also enhances bodily functions, improves quality of life, and supports overall wellness. Let’s explore the wide-ranging benefits of chiropractic care and why it might be the key to a healthier you.

Holistic Pain Relief

**1. Back and Neck Pain:
Chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective for treating back and neck pain. By correcting spinal alignment, these adjustments reduce strain on the spine and improve nerve function, which can alleviate pain and increase mobility.

**2. Headaches and Migraines:
Many types of headaches are linked to spinal issues and muscle tension. Chiropractic treatment can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches by improving spinal health and relieving tension.

Improved Mobility and Functionality

Regular chiropractic care helps maintain and enhance joint mobility, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of injury. Adjustments optimize body mechanics by ensuring the musculoskeletal system functions as efficiently as possible.

Boosted Immune System

Chiropractic adjustments can positively affect the nervous system, which is closely linked to the immune system. By optimizing nerve function, chiropractic care can help strengthen your immune response, potentially reducing your susceptibility to illnesses.

Enhanced Posture and Spinal Health

Long-term chiropractic care promotes improved posture by aligning the spine and correcting abnormalities that may have developed over years of poor posture habits. This not only improves appearance but also supports overall spinal health and functionality.

Increased Quality of Life

By reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and improving bodily functions, chiropractic care can significantly boost your quality of life. It allows patients to enjoy activities with less discomfort and greater enjoyment, contributing to both physical and mental health.

Prevention of Further Issues

Regular chiropractic visits can help prevent future health issues by maintaining spinal health, muscle balance, and overall body harmony. It is proactive care that focuses on preventing problems before they start.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free approach to health that can benefit everyone—from active athletes to office workers. At Vector Spine and Sport chiropractic, we are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal health through personalized chiropractic solutions. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of chiropractic care, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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Treating Pickleball Injuries with Shockwave Therapy at Vector Spine and Sport

Pickleball

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport with players of all ages, combines elements from tennis, badminton, and table tennis. While it’s known for being accessible and fun, the sport can still lead to injuries. Common pickleball injuries include tendonitis, knee pain, and shoulder issues. Fortunately, Shockwave Therapy at Vector Spine and Sport offers an innovative solution to these common ailments, helping players recover faster and return to playing with reduced pain.

Understanding Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to target injured tissues. It stimulates the body’s natural healing processes by enhancing blood circulation and cell regeneration. Here’s how it can help pickleball players:

**1. Fast Pain Relief:
Shockwave therapy helps to reduce pain quickly by diminishing nerve sensitivity and increasing growth factors that support tissue healing.

**2. Enhanced Healing:
The therapy accelerates tissue repair and cell growth, making it highly effective for chronic conditions like tendonitis, which is common in pickleball players due to repetitive motion.

**3. Improved Mobility:
By breaking down scar tissue and calcifications, Shockwave Therapy can restore mobility and improve the range of motion, which is crucial for maintaining effective strokes and serves in pickleball.

**4. Reduced Inflammation:
The therapy’s ability to reduce inflammation can lead to a significant decrease in swelling and discomfort, allowing for more comfortable movement.

When to Consider Shockwave Therapy

If you’re experiencing persistent pain from playing pickleball that doesn’t improve with rest or traditional treatments, Shockwave Therapy might be an appropriate option. It’s particularly recommended for:

  • Tendonitis and bursitis
  • Muscle strains and sprains
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Calcific shoulder tendonitis

Conclusion

Don’t let injuries keep you off the pickleball court. Shockwave Therapy at Vector Spine and Sport offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive solution to speed up your recovery and help you play pain-free. Contact us today to find out more about this advanced treatment option and see if it is the right choice for your pickleball-related injuries.

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Knees Hurt When You Walk? Read This…

Walking should feel natural — not like a chore. But if every step sends a twinge through your knees, it’s time to pay attention.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we see knee pain all the time — and not just in runners or athletes. Whether you’re walking around the block or powering through a workout, chronic knee pain can seriously hold you back.

💢 Common Causes of Knee Pain While Walking

  • Overuse or repetitive strain – from hiking, stairs, or even standing all day
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome – pain around the kneecap, common in runners
  • Arthritis – especially osteoarthritis, which wears down cartilage over time
  • Tendonitis or bursitis – inflammation of the soft tissues around the joint
  • Previous injuries – like ACL tears or meniscus damage that never fully healed

Even foot alignment, hip tightness, or muscle imbalances can throw off your gait and create pain in the knees.

✅ Treatment Options That Actually Work

The good news? Surgery and heavy pain meds are not your only options.

We take a holistic and non-invasive approach to knee pain at Vector Spine and Sport.

🔹 Chiropractic Care

By improving alignment in the hips, spine, and knees, chiropractic adjustments can help correct imbalances and reduce strain on the knees. Many patients feel relief in just a few sessions.

🔹 Shockwave Therapy

This powerful, FDA-cleared technology uses sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in soft tissue injuries. It’s perfect for stubborn issues like tendonitis, bursitis, or chronic pain that just won’t go away.

🔹 Targeted Rehab & Lifestyle Tips

We also provide personalized movement strategies and home care exercises to keep you moving and prevent the pain from returning.

🎯 The Bottom Line:

If walking hurts, your body is trying to tell you something. Don’t wait for it to get worse.

Let’s treat the root cause — not just mask the symptoms.

👉 Book your consultation today and ask about our limited-time offer on shockwave therapy!
We’re here to help you walk confidently, pain-free.

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☀️ Don’t Let Summer Sideline You: Preventing Common Summer Injuries

Summer in Utah means more time outside — whether you’re hitting the pickleball courts, lacing up your hiking boots, or finally committing to that morning jog. While staying active is great for your health, increased activity also means a higher risk of strains, sprains, and chronic pain flare-ups.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we’re all about keeping you moving without pain holding you back. Here are simple, proactive tips to help you avoid common summer injuries — and how chiropractic care and shockwave therapy can be your secret weapon for recovery and prevention.

🌿 Most Common Summer Injuries

When the sun comes out, so do the risks. Some of the most frequent issues we treat in the summer months include:

  • Ankle sprains from trail running or hiking
  • Tendonitis in the knees or elbows from pickleball and tennis
  • Lower back strains from yard work or lifting the wrong way
  • Shoulder pain from overuse or poor posture during outdoor sports

These injuries often sneak up on people — they don’t always feel serious at first, but left untreated, they can sideline your fun fast.

🏃‍♂️ Injury Prevention Tips for Outdoor Activities

1. Warm-Up Smart
Don’t skip the stretch! A quick warm-up before any outdoor activity increases circulation, improves joint mobility, and helps prevent muscle pulls.

  • Before a hike: Do light walking + hip and calf stretches.
  • Before running: Try dynamic movements like high knees or leg swings.
  • Before pickleball: Add shoulder circles, wrist stretches, and gentle lunges.

2. Listen to Your Body
It’s tempting to jump back into summer activities full throttle, but pacing yourself is key. Increase intensity gradually and take rest days.

3. Wear the Right Gear
Shoes matter! Worn-out soles or poor support can lead to knee, foot, and back pain. Invest in proper gear for the sport you’re doing.

4. Stay Hydrated
Dehydrated muscles are more prone to cramping and injury. Water keeps your tissues healthy and supports overall recovery.

💪 How Chiropractic and Shockwave Therapy Help

If pain does show up — or you want to stay ahead of it — Vector Spine and Sport has your back (literally).

Chiropractic Care
Proper alignment of the spine and joints enhances mobility, reduces tension, and helps your body function at its best. Regular adjustments also prevent compensation patterns that lead to injury over time.

Shockwave Therapy
For nagging pain that just won’t go away, shockwave therapy is a game-changer. It uses acoustic energy to:

  • Break up scar tissue
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Stimulate natural healing
  • Restore function — without drugs or surgery

We use both focused and radial shockwave based on your condition, and it’s ideal for treating tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, shin splints, and more.

✅ Stay in the Game All Summer Long

You don’t have to wait until you’re hurting to take action. Let this summer be the one where you move confidently, recover faster, and feel stronger.

Book your visit to Vector Spine and Sport and get a custom plan that keeps you active — with less pain and more results.

💥 Ready to Move Pain-Free?
Schedule a chiropractic consult or ask about our summer shockwave therapy specials!