How Sports Therapy Gave a Young Athlete a Second Chance

How Dr. Craig’s Sports Therapy Gave a Young Athlete a Second Chance

At just 19 years old, Tyler had a promising future in collegiate soccer. A forward known for his speed and agility, he was already on the radar of scouts from top universities. But during a crucial match, disaster struck—an awkward fall left Tyler clutching his knee in pain. A trip to the hospital revealed the diagnosis: a partial ACL tear. Devastated by the thought of losing his athletic career, Tyler feared this injury would derail his dreams.

That’s when Tyler’s coach recommended Dr. Craig Burns, a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® (CCSP®), known for his expertise in sports therapy and rehabilitation.

A Customized Road to Recovery

When Tyler arrived at Dr. Craig’s clinic, he was met with a comprehensive assessment. Dr. Craig’s approach wasn’t just about treating the injury—it was about understanding Tyler’s goals and creating a plan to get him back on the field stronger than ever.

The recovery plan included a combination of:

• Spinal adjustments to ensure optimal alignment and reduce strain on the knee.

• Graston Technique® to address scar tissue and promote soft tissue healing.

• Rehabilitation exercises designed to rebuild strength and stability in Tyler’s knee.

• Preventative education to reduce the risk of future injuries.

“Dr. Craig explained every step of the process,” Tyler recalls. “He focused on not just healing my knee but improving my overall performance.”

The Turning Point

The progress was slow but steady. With Dr. Craig’s guidance, Tyler’s knee pain began to subside, and his mobility improved. The regenerative rehab techniques helped him regain strength and range of motion. Dr. Craig also focused on educating Tyler about biomechanics, teaching him how proper posture and movement could protect his body during intense matches.

After weeks of therapy and conditioning, Tyler hit a major milestone—he completed his first sprint drill without pain. “That moment gave me hope,” Tyler says. “It reminded me that I was capable of coming back stronger.”

Back on the Field and Better Than Ever

By the end of his rehabilitation, Tyler wasn’t just back to playing soccer; he was performing at a higher level than before his injury. His newfound strength and agility earned him a spot in his university’s starting lineup. In one of his first games back, he scored the winning goal—a testament to his hard work and Dr. Craig’s expertise.

“Dr. Craig didn’t just heal my knee—he gave me my confidence back,” Tyler says. “He turned what felt like the end of my career into a new beginning.”

A Legacy of Empowering Athletes

Tyler’s story is one of many young athletes who have benefited from Dr. Craig’s specialized knowledge in sports therapy. His commitment to tailored care, advanced techniques, and preventative education helps athletes overcome injuries and reach their full potential.