Best Treatments for Sports Injuries (Backed by Science)

Apr 28, 2026

Best Treatments for Sports Injuries (Backed by Science)

By Arvada Sport and Spine Group | Regenerative Medicine, Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, Massage & Sports Rehab Experts

Sports injuries can sideline your progress, limit your lifestyle, and if not treated properly lead to long-term issues. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or competitive athlete, the key to recovery isn’t just rest it’s targeted, evidence-based care. We offer the best treatment for sprains and strains

At Arvada Sport and Spine Group, we specialize in combining advanced therapies to help patients heal faster, reduce pain, and prevent re-injury.

Common Sports Injuries We Treat

  • Sprains and strains
  • Tendonitis (Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff)
  • Knee injuries (ACL, meniscus, runner’s knee)
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Elbow injuries
  • Low back and neck pain
  • Sports-related concussions

Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care together: The Foundation of Recovery

Why it works:

Physical therapy for sports injuries is one of the most evidence-supported treatments. Research shows that active rehab and exercise-based therapy improve recovery time and function compared to passive approaches.

Benefits:

  • Restores strength and mobility
  • Reduces pain naturally
  • Speeds return to sport
  • Prevents future injuries

Sports injury treatment Arvada - Sports physical therapy in Arvada, CO

Chiropractic Care: Restoring Movement & Function

What the science says:

Chiropractic care is effective for pain relief and restoring joint mobility, especially in musculoskeletal injuries. While evidence for performance enhancement is limited, it plays a strong role in helping injured athletes return to activity safely.


Benefits:
  • Improves joint mechanics
  • Reduces pain and inflammation
  • Enhances movement patterns
  • Complements rehab programs
Chiropractic sports injury care - Sports Chiropractic Treatment in Arvada, CO

Massage Therapy & Soft Tissue Work

    What research shows:
    Massage therapy and soft tissue techniques may help with pain relief and short-term recovery, though evidence varies in quality.

    Benefits:

    • Reduces muscle tension
    • Improves circulation
    • Enhances recovery between workouts
    • Supports other treatments

    Massage Therapy in Arvada, CO

    For patients who want more advanced or accelerated recovery, we also offer cutting-edge therapies, such as class IV laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and trigger point dry needling.



    Class IV Laser Therapy (Advanced Recovery Technology)

    Why it’s powerful:

    Laser therapy (photobiomodulation), not to be confused with red light therapy, helps reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue repair, and decrease pain. Emerging research shows it’s a valuable non-invasive tool in sports rehab.

    Benefits:

    • Faster healing at the cellular level
    • Reduced swelling and pain
    • Non-invasive and drug-free
    • Ideal for acute and chronic injuries

    Laser therapy for injuries - Class IV laser therapy for sports injuries in Arvada,


    Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Injuries

    Shockwave therapy (ESWT) is strongly supported by research for chronic tendon injuries.Best for:
    • Plantar fasciitis
    • Achilles tendonitis
    • Tennis elbos
    • Patellar tendonitis
    What the science says:
    Studies show significant pain reduction and functional improvement, especially in chronic conditions that haven’t responded to rest or basic PT
    Recommended in many clinical guidelines for tendinopathies.


    Shockwave therapy for chronic sports injuries - Shockwave therapy in Arvada, CO

    Trigger Point Dry Needling for Muscle Pain

    Why it’s valuable:

    Dry needling is widely used by physical therapy and chiropractors for muscle pain, trigger points, and movement dysfunction.

    Best for:

    • Muscle tightness and knots
    • Neck and back pain
    • Shoulder injuries
    • Hip and glute dysfunction

    What the research shows:

    Moderate evidence supports short-term pain relief and improved mobility. Works best when combined with exercise and rehab.


    Dry needling for muscle pain relief - Trigger Point Dry Needling in Arvada, CO


    Multidisciplinary Care = Best Results

    The most effective treatment approach is not just one therapy, it’s a combination. Research supports multimodal treatment (exercise + manual therapy + adjunct therapies) for faster recovery and better outcomes. At Arvada Sport and Spine Group, we often combine these to help you with the best outcomes:

    • Physical therapy
    • Chiropractic Care
    • Massage therapy
    • Laser therapy
    • Shockwave therapy
    • Dry needling
      This integrated approach = faster recovery + longer-lasting results

      Why Early Treatment Matters
      Ignoring an injury or “pushing through pain” can lead to:
      • Chronic pain
      • Compensation injuries
      • Longer recovery times
      • Increased risk of re-injury

      The earlier you start care, the better your outcome. We are your sports injury recovery clinic. Schedule your sport injury evaluation, contact us today.

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