You train your body, but do you train your brain? New research shows that chiropractic adjustments do not only affect your spine, they change your brainwaves as well. The result? Less pain, less fatigue and a better quality of life in people with chronic low back pain.
🧠 What links chiropractic, the brain and sporting performance?
As a chiropractor who works with athletes, I say it often:
“Your nervous system is the control system for your whole body. If it is not working properly, you cannot perform at your best either.”
A 2024 study published in Brain Sciences looked at how chiropractic care affects the brain in people with chronic low back pain. The researchers used EEG scans, which measure brainwaves, alongside Fitbits and quality of life questionnaires. In the group that had chiropractic care, they found measurable changes in brain activity.
This study looked at adults with back pain, not specifically at athletes, but the findings are still interesting if you ask a lot of your body.
The study in brief
76 adults with chronic low back pain were split into two groups: one group received chiropractic care for four weeks
The other group had only their usual care, without chiropractic
Researchers measured brain activity, sleep, activity levels, mood and quality of life
Results after four weeks of care:
✅ Measurable changes in brain activity
✅ More time in light sleep, measured with a Fitbit
✅ Less pain, fatigue, anxiety and low mood
✅ Better overall quality of life
What does this mean for athletes?
If you are an athlete, these changes could matter to you in a few ways:
1. Faster recovery and less pain 💪
Less pain and fatigue can mean your body repairs faster and you need fewer rest days.
2. Better sleep means better performance 💤
Good sleep supports muscle repair, energy levels and hormonal balance.
3. A nervous system doing its job 🧠
Your spine is the motorway of your nervous system.
Why does this matter?
Chiropractic is often thought of as “something for back pain”. What this study suggests is that chiropractic care also changes activity in your brain. And your brain is behind every single movement you make.
Whether you are training for a competition, coming back from an injury or you simply want to perform better, chiropractic supports the systems that keep you in form.
Ready to train smarter?
At Johnston Chiropractie we focus on sports chiropractic that gets your body and your nervous system working properly. Whether you are dealing with a complaint or just looking for a performance boost, we will help you get the best out of yourself.
📍 Lylantse Plein 1, Capelle aan den IJssel
📅 Book your consultation at www.johnstonchiropractie.nl
Let your brain and body work properly again. 💥
See you in the practice soon,
Gillian