Sports Injury Chiropractic

Whether you rolled an ankle on the soccer field, tweaked your back lifting, or keep battling a nagging shoulder from the pool, Actus Chiropractic helps Brentwood athletes recover and return to play. Dr. Val Tompkins holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from Pepperdine University, with an emphasis on kinesiology and biomechanics — the science of how the body moves. He also coaches varsity water polo at Freedom High School in Oakley, so he understands what athletes ask of their bodies every week.

Sports Injuries We Treat

We care for weekend warriors, high school and youth athletes, runners, golfers, lifters and anyone who wants to stay active. Common conditions include:

• Sprains and strains (ankle, knee, wrist, back)
• Low back pain from lifting, golf or running
• Neck injuries and whiplash-type injuries from contact sports
• Shoulder pain, including swimmer's and thrower's shoulder
• Hip, knee and IT band pain in runners and cyclists
• Tennis and golfer's elbow
• Overuse injuries and repetitive-motion strain
• Muscle imbalances that cause recurring injuries

How Chiropractic Care Helps Athletes Recover

An injury rarely happens in isolation. A stiff hip changes your stride, which loads your knee, which tightens your back. Dr. Val looks at the whole kinetic chain to find the root cause — not just where it hurts.

Your sports injury care plan may include:

• Targeted chiropractic adjustments using Gonstead, Diversified or the gentle Koren Specific Technique (KST), chosen for your body and injury.
• Extremity adjustments for shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees and ankles.
• Cold laser therapy (low-level laser), a tool many professional athletes use to help calm inflammation and support tissue recovery.
• Customized corrective exercises you can do at home to rebuild strength, stability and mobility.
• Return-to-play and performance coaching on training habits, recovery and injury prevention.

Benefits of Sports Chiropractic

• Faster, more complete recovery without relying on pain medication
• Improved range of motion and flexibility
• Better balance, coordination and biomechanics
• Fewer repeat injuries
• A plan that fits your season, sport and goals

Why Brentwood Athletes Choose Dr. Val

• Degree in Sports Medicine with a focus on biomechanics
• Practicing since 2000, with his own Brentwood practice since 2001
• Active coach who works with East Contra Costa County athletes year-round
• Care for all ages, from youth sports to masters athletes
• Personalized treatment instead of one-size-fits-all routines

Sports Injury Chiropractic FAQs

Should I see a chiropractor or a doctor for a sports injury? For suspected fractures, dislocations, head injuries or severe swelling, see a medical doctor or go to urgent care first. For sprains, strains, joint restrictions and recurring pain, a sports chiropractor is an excellent, drug-free option. Dr. Val will refer you out if imaging or medical care is needed.

How soon after an injury should I come in? Within a few days is ideal. Early care can help limit compensation patterns that lead to secondary injuries.

Can chiropractic care improve athletic performance? Many athletes find that better joint motion, balance and body mechanics help them move more efficiently and recover faster between training sessions.

Do you treat youth and high school athletes? Yes. Dr. Val is certified in pediatric chiropractic and works with young athletes every season.

Will I need to stop playing my sport? Not always. Our goal is to keep you as active as is safe while you heal, with modifications when needed.

Get Back in the Game

Don't let an injury sideline your season. Call Actus Chiropractic at (925) 516-2363 or request an appointment online(opens in new tab). We proudly serve athletes in Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Discovery Bay, Byron and Knightsen.