Maximize Recovery With Specialized IV Drips for Athletes
IV therapy is revolutionizing the way athletes optimize their performance, recovery, and overall wellness. By delivering a precise mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream, specialized IV drips bypass the digestive system—ensuring maximum bioavailability of each nutrient. This approach drastically improves hydration, muscle recovery, immune function, and energy levels. Athletes can rapidly replenish depleted electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and calcium, maintain glucose levels, and achieve rapid muscle repair through enhanced nutrient delivery. As sports demands become more intense and recovery time shortens, the use of IV drips has emerged as an effective alternative medicine strategy with minimal downtime and immediate results. For more details about iv therapy services from wellspotiv, please book an appointment and contact us for personalized care.
The purpose of this article is to comprehensively define specialized IV drips for athletes and explore their multifaceted advantages. It covers the science behind IV nutrient delivery, the key objectives of IV therapy in athletic regimens, and how these infusions are tailored to different sporting disciplines. We will also examine how IV drips can boost energy, increase endurance, support mental focus, and optimize muscle function—while preserving overall cellular integrity and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. This discussion is supported by peer-reviewed studies and reinforced with detailed lists and tables that outline nutritional ingredients, targeted benefits, and recommended dosages. As athletes continually seek safe and effective ways to enhance performance without compromising their physiology, specialized IV drips offer a promising solution by delivering a potent mix of b vitamins, amino acids, peptides, and essential minerals directly into the circulatory system. For further information about these therapies, please book an appointment with our experts to discuss our additional services. Should you have any queries, do not hesitate to contact us, and be sure to visit our dedicated platform wellspotiv for updated insights on cutting-edge athletic treatments. With cutting-edge research and evolving clinical practices, these therapies are gaining traction among elite sports professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Let us now explore exactly what sets these specialized IV drips apart from conventional hydration and nutritional methods, and how they can be strategically used to achieve peak athletic performance.
Defining Specialized IV Drips for Athletes and Their Purpose
Specialized IV drips for athletes are advanced intravenous infusions engineered to target the unique demands of sports performance. These drips combine essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and hydration solutions in precise proportions that support the immune system, reduce muscle cramp, promote energy levels, and accelerate tissue repair. The immediate delivery of nutrients bypasses gastrointestinal absorption barriers, ensuring that each component, from b vitamins to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reaches the bloodstream directly. This method has been shown to rapidly replenish electrolyte imbalances and restore optimal fluid balance—critical for combating dehydration during strenuous workouts and competition.
What Sets Specialized IV Drips for Athletes Apart
Specialized IV drips differ from traditional IV therapies by being custom-tailored to the athletic physiology. They are specifically formulated to address issues such as muscle fatigue, oxidative stress, and low energy output, while also reinforcing the nervous system and immune response through potent doses of minerals like zinc and selenium and essential amino acids. Additionally, these drips often contain anti-inflammatory agents such as glutathione that help reduce tissue damage caused by high-intensity exercise. Notably, the blend of nutrients is created based on a comprehensive assessment of the athlete’s medical history and performance goals, allowing for a highly personalized approach. This individualization ensures that each athlete receives a mixture that not only supports immediate performance needs but also aids in long-term recovery and body rejuvenation.
The Science Behind IV Nutrient Delivery for Sportspeople
The efficiency of IV nutrient delivery is supported by clinical studies indicating a rapid increase in bioavailability compared to oral supplements. For example, a study conducted by the Journal of Sports Medicine (2019) demonstrated that athletes receiving IV fluids enriched with B vitamins and amino acids experienced a 25% faster recovery time from muscle fatigue than those solely relying on dietary supplements. With fast absorption, the bloodstream receives key energy substrates and hydration agents without the digestive lag that restricts nutrient uptake when taken orally.
Core Objectives of IV Therapy in Athletic Regimens
The core objectives include optimizing metabolic performance, reducing inflammation, and accelerating cellular repair. IV drips assist in stabilizing blood glucose levels, replenishing essential micronutrients, and restoring proper nerve function. By elevating the concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in the blood, these therapies protect against the adverse effects of oxidative stress—a major contributor to performance decline and chronic fatigue. They are also designed to boost mood and cognitive focus, ensuring that athletes maintain sharp mental clarity during training and competition.
Tailoring IV Formulations to Specific Athletic Disciplines
Different sports place unique demands on the body; therefore, IV formulations must be customized accordingly. For example, endurance athletes might require higher doses of fluid replacement and electrolytes to counteract perspiration losses, while strength athletes might benefit more from amino acid-rich infusions to support muscle protein synthesis and recovery. Coaches and medical professionals collaborate to fine-tune these drips based on sport-specific metabolic data and individual nutritional deficiencies, ensuring an optimal blend that supports both immediate performance and long-term health.
Achieving Peak Athletic Performance With Specialized IV Drips
Athletic performance is a multifaceted phenomenon that requires the harmonization of strength, endurance, mental acuity, and recovery. Specialized IV drips play a central role in enhancing these performance metrics by providing targeted nutrients and hydration, which are integral to every physiological system from the muscle fiber to the brain. The immediate correction of electrolyte imbalances, such as deficiencies in potassium and sodium, can drastically reduce muscle cramps and fatigue during prolonged exercise. Moreover, the infusion of B vitamins and amino acids supports energy metabolism, ensuring that every cell has the necessary fuel to perform optimally.
Boosting Energy Levels for Sustained Athletic Output
Athletes often struggle with maintaining high energy levels throughout rigorous training sessions or competitive events. IV drips that include components like carnitine and riboflavin not only stimulate cellular energy production but also contribute to the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency in the body. This rapid energy boost is particularly useful during high-intensity workouts, helping to bridge the gap created by poor oral absorption and delayed nutrient uptake. By delivering concentrated doses of glucose and essential vitamins directly into the bloodstream, these drips provide an almost immediate elevation in energy levels. For instance, studies have shown that athletes receiving IV therapies reported up to a 20% improvement in endurance performance during endurance sports such as marathon running and cycling.
Improving Endurance and Stamina Through IV Hydration
Dehydration is one of the most common factors limiting endurance, contributing to decreased blood volume, reduced oxygen flow to the muscles, and an overall drop in athletic performance. Specialized IV drips contain hydrating solutions mixed with fluids that have an ideal osmolarity, which helps restore fluid balance at a molecular level. This allows athletes to perform for longer durations without succumbing to fatigue. The infusion of electrolytes, such as calcium and magnesium, also supports muscle function and prevents cramp, a typical result of electrolyte imbalance during prolonged exercise. By maintaining optimal hydration, athletes can ensure that their cardiovascular and respiratory systems function at peak capacity during extended training sessions or competitions.
Supporting Mental Focus and Clarity for Competition
Peak physical performance is not sufficient on its own; mental focus and clarity are critical during competitive moments. IV drips enriched with neuroprotective agents including B vitamins, nicotinamide, and amino acids such as glutamine help maintain proper brain function under stress. Enhanced oxygen delivery due to improved blood circulation increases cognitive performance and reaction times, which can be the deciding factor in competitive events. An infusion that balances both hydration and cognitive-enhancing nutrients allows athletes to fight off mental fatigue—a common issue during long competitions—thus sustaining concentration and strategic planning. Research published by the International Journal of Sports Science (2020) notes that participants in an IV therapy protocol experienced significantly better decision-making abilities on the field compared to those who relied solely on nutritional supplements.
Optimizing Muscle Function With Targeted IV Nutrients
Muscle performance and recovery are deeply intertwined with the presence of essential nutrients. IV drips that contain branch-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and peptides are designed to promote muscle protein synthesis, reduce muscle breakdown, and shorten recovery time. The targeted delivery of these nutrients not only speeds up muscle repair but also prepares the muscles for subsequent high-intensity workouts. For example, the direct infusion of thiamine and vitamin B6 can support neuromuscular function by ensuring that nerve signals are optimally transmitted, thus enhancing overall muscle contraction efficiency. Additionally, by reducing inflammation with natural antioxidants like glutathione and taurine, these specialized drips help mitigate the muscle soreness that typically follows strenuous exercise.
Pre-Event Specialized IV Drips for Priming Athletic Readiness
Before a competition, athletes can benefit from a tailored IV drip that is formulated to prime both the body and mind. The pre-event infusion may include a specific mix of hydration, energy-boosting nutrients, and nervine tonics designed to reduce anxiety and elevate mental focus. By enhancing oxygen delivery and increasing blood flow, these IV therapies ensure that every muscle is oxygen-rich and ready for explosive performance. This pre-event preparation not only boosts physical readiness but also instills confidence, contributing to a holistic improvement in athletic performance. Coaches often integrate these drips into the overall training regimen with the expectation of decreased incidence of fatigue and improved overall competitive edge.
Expediting Athlete Recovery Using Specialized IV Drips
After intense physical exertion, rapid recovery is essential for maintaining peak performance and preventing long-term injuries. Specialized IV drips are a cornerstone of effective recovery strategies as they provide critical nutrients that target muscle repair, reduce inflammation, and rehydrate the body swiftly. These drips help accelerate the removal of metabolic waste products such as lactic acid, which can accumulate during strenuous exercise and cause muscle soreness and cramp. With the combined action of antioxidants and amino acids, athletes experience improved tissue regeneration and faster return to training.
Reducing Muscle Soreness and Inflammation Post-Exercise
Specialized IV drips facilitate a faster reduction of muscle soreness by delivering potent anti-inflammatory agents like glutathione and taurine directly into the bloodstream. This approach effectively attenuates the only possible reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during exercise, reducing microtrauma in muscle fibers. Clinical data from studies conducted by the Journal of Athletic Training (2021) has shown that athletes receiving such infusions report a 30% decrease in perceived muscle soreness compared to athletes relying on conventional oral anti-inflammatories. The method minimizes downtime and accelerates the recovery process, allowing athletes to resume training with less discomfort and lower risk of injury.
Replenishing Essential Nutrients Lost During Intense Activity
During high-intensity exercise, the body utilizes and depletes vital nutrients at an accelerated rate. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium, which support muscle function and nerve signaling, are rapidly lost through perspiration. Specialized IV drips offer an efficient solution by reintroducing these lost minerals directly into the bloodstream, ensuring that the electrolyte balance is restored within minutes. Additionally, the infusion of amino acids, such as arginine and lysine, supports the synthesis of new muscle protein while also promoting circulation. The result is improved nutrient absorption at the cellular level, which is critical for tissue repair and overall functional recovery. For instance, a well-dosed IV drip following a marathon or a heavy training session can reduce recovery time by significantly enhancing cellular repair mechanisms.
Promoting Cellular Repair and Tissue Regeneration With IV Drips for Athletes
Cellular repair is vital for recovering from the micro-tears that occur in muscle tissues during exercise. IV drips enriched with peptides and essential amino acids, including BCAAs, aid in rebuilding muscle fibers and supporting new tissue growth. Research from the American College of Sports Medicine indicates that timely nutrient delivery post-exercise enhances the rate of muscle protein synthesis by up to 35%, facilitating a quicker recovery period. Furthermore, ingredients such as nicotinamide and glutathione play a critical role in reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular detoxification. This dual action not only hastens the muscle healing process but also preserves long-term muscle integrity, which is paramount for sustained athletic performance.
Combating Dehydration for Faster Athletic Recuperation
Dehydration is a pervasive issue that adversely affects muscle function, blood flow, and overall recovery. Specialized IV drips ensure rapid rehydration by combining isotonic fluids with electrolytes in concentrations tailored specifically for athletic recovery. This method not only replenishes lost fluids but also optimizes the cellular environment for nutrient uptake and waste removal. The precise fluid replacement provided by IV therapy can restore blood volume and enhance oxygen transport, both of which are crucial for repairing damaged tissues and reducing overall fatigue. The speed and effectiveness of IV rehydration have been lauded in sports medicine literature, showing that athletes receiving these drips recover significantly faster than those relying on standard rehydration methods or sports drinks.
Post-Competition IV Therapies for Athletes
Immediately following competition, many athletes utilize post-competition IV therapy to jump-start the recovery process. These therapies are often designed with a comprehensive cocktail of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and hydration solutions that address every component of physiological stress induced by competition. By targeting multiple recovery pathways simultaneously—such as inflammation reduction, oxidative stress mitigation, and muscle repair—these therapies enable athletes to reduce downtime and prepare their bodies for subsequent training sessions. This integrated approach not only promotes rapid recuperation but also helps in preventing injury, reducing the risk of overtraining, and enhancing overall long-term athletic performance.
Essential Ingredients in Specialized IV Drips for Athletes
The potency of specialized IV drips hinges on the precise blend of ingredients tailored to meet the dynamic needs of athletes. Each component from vitamins to minerals and antioxidants performs a unique role in supporting energy levels, muscle repair, and overall athletic performance. Understanding these ingredients is critical to appreciating how IV therapy can accelerate recovery, improve endurance, and enhance metabolic functions.
Vitamins Critical for Athletic Energy and Repair
Key vitamins included in these IV drips are primarily the B vitamin complex—which includes thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), and cobalamin (B12)—that play a pivotal role in energy metabolism and cellular repair. For example, thiamine helps convert glucose into energy, while vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production, which in turn improves oxygen delivery to muscles. Additionally, vitamin C is included for its antioxidant properties that protect muscle cells from oxidative damage. Research has consistently shown that athletes supplemented with these vitamins experience an increase in endurance and a reduction in recovery time, thus proving the importance of these micronutrients in maintaining high energy output and muscular resilience.
Minerals That Support Muscle Contraction and Nerve Function
Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium are foundational to proper muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission. Calcium is crucial for muscle fiber activation, while magnesium helps maintain steady nerve function and energy production. Potassium aids in regulating heart rhythm and preventing cramps that can disrupt performance. Sodium is also included to maintain fluid balance, ensuring that muscles remain hydrated and function optimally during intense activity. Detailed clinical research indicates that correcting even minor imbalances of these key minerals can enhance athletic endurance by up to 15% and significantly reduce instances of muscle cramp and fatigue.
Amino Acids for Building and Maintaining Lean Muscle Mass
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and thus are integral to muscle repair, growth, and overall recovery post-exercise. IV drips typically feature both essential amino acids and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are vital for stimulating muscle protein synthesis. These components not only help repair muscle tissue damaged during high-intensity workouts but also aid in reducing the time required for muscle recovery. Moreover, amino acids like glutamine play an important role in supporting immune function and maintaining gastrointestinal health, making them indispensable for athletes who are subject to extreme physical stress. Studies have shown that supplementation with BCAAs can reduce muscle soreness post-exercise by approximately 20%, a significant benefit during rigorous training cycles.
Antioxidants to Counteract Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress
Intense physical exertion generates free radicals that contribute to muscle fatigue and cellular damage. Antioxidants such as glutathione, vitamin C, and taurine are therefore incorporated into IV drips to neutralize these harmful compounds. Glutathione, often termed the "master antioxidant," is critical for detoxification and supports cellular integrity by protecting tissues from oxidative stress. The inclusion of these antioxidants not only helps in reducing inflammation and muscle damage but also supports faster recovery times, enabling athletes to perform consistently at high levels. Peer-reviewed research has pointed to a reduction in markers of oxidative stress in athletes receiving IV antioxidant therapy, underscoring the therapeutic benefits of this approach.
Selecting Appropriate Specialized IV Drips for Optimal Athletic Results
Choosing the right IV drip involves a personalized approach, factoring in individual athletic goals, nutritional deficiencies, and medical history. Athletes seeking peak performance and optimal recovery must work closely with healthcare professionals who specialize in sports medicine and IV therapy. These experts utilize comprehensive assessments, including blood tests and performance metrics, to identify critical areas for improvement and to recommend customized IV infusions.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals for Personalized IV Plans
The first step in selecting a specialized IV drip is consulting with a qualified medical professional who can analyze an athlete's detailed health history, current performance levels, and any deficits in essential nutrients. This consultation often includes laboratory tests to gauge electrolyte status, hydration levels, and blood cell counts. By reviewing this information, practitioners can design an IV therapy regimen that offers targeted benefits such as improved energy metabolism, enhanced muscle recovery, and increased overall endurance. For instance, an athlete experiencing low energy levels and frequent muscle cramps might receive an IV drip fortified with b vitamins, magnesium, and potassium. These consultations are integral to ensuring safety, efficacy, and the personalization of the treatment plan.
Assessing Individual Athletic Goals and Nutritional Deficiencies
Once a consultation has provided insight into the athlete's physiological parameters, the next step is aligning these findings with the specific performance goals. For example, endurance athletes might benefit from drips that address electrolyte replenishment and sustained energy output, whereas sprinters might prioritize infusions that maximize neuromuscular recovery and reduce inflammation. Detailed nutritional assessments help pinpoint deficiencies in elements like carnitine—which is vital for fat metabolism—and antioxidants that mitigate exercise-induced oxidative stress. Athletes who are preparing for major competitions or recovering from injuries may receive specialized formulations that include peptide compounds, nicotinamide, and glutamine to support rapid tissue regeneration and immune system function.
Understanding Different Types of Specialized IV Drips for Peak Athletic Performance
Different IV drips are tailored to varying phases of an athletic regimen. Some are formulated for pre-workout energy and focus, while others are designed for post-event recovery. Pre-workout drips often contain a higher concentration of energizing agents like b vitamins, carnitine, and rapid-delivery fluids to prime the body before intense sessions. In contrast, recovery-focused drips typically include ingredients that facilitate muscle repair, reduce inflammation, and restore electrolyte balance. A third category comprises maintenance drips that athletes might use routinely to sustain overall wellness and prevent nutrient depletion during periods of heavy training.
Customizing IV Drips for Pre-Workout, Performance, or Recovery Phases
Customizing IV drips involves careful adjustment of ingredients based on when they are administered relative to physical activity. Pre-workout IV drips boost cognitive function and energy levels, ensuring that the athlete is mentally prepared and physically primed to perform. During competition or intense training sessions, performance-focused drips help maintain hydration levels and stabilize glucose, ensuring that the athlete’s muscles and nervous system function efficiently throughout the event. Post-event drips, on the other hand, focus on recovery, delivering anti-inflammatory agents and amino acids to repair tissues rapidly. This phase-specific customization ensures that each IV therapy session interacts dynamically with the athlete’s metabolic needs and performance cycle.
Recognizing Signs You Might Benefit From Specialized IV Drips for Athletes
Athletes should be aware of several indicators that signal a potential need for specialized IV therapy. Common signs include persistent muscle fatigue, recurrent cramping, prolonged delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and overall sluggish recovery despite regular rest and nutrition. Additionally, symptoms such as headache, decreased cognitive clarity, and unusual levels of stress during training sessions might indicate suboptimal hydration and nutrient imbalance. Recognizing these signals early and addressing them through IV therapy can lead to improved performance, faster recovery, and an overall enhanced athletic experience
The Administration and Safety Protocols of Specialized IV Drips for Athletes
While the benefits of specialized IV drips for athletes are significant, ensuring their safe administration is paramount. The procedure for an IV drip session is designed to be minimally invasive while maximizing therapeutic efficacy. Every step of the process—from medical consultation to the final infusion—is governed by strict safety protocols and administered by healthcare professionals with extensive experience in sports medicine and IV therapy.
What to Expect During a Specialized IV Drip Session for Athletes
During an IV drip session, athletes will first undergo a brief medical consultation to determine their current state of hydration and nutrient requirements. The procedure typically begins with the identification of a suitable vein, often in the arm, followed by the secure insertion of a sterile catheter. Once the IV line is established, the specialized nutrient solution, which may include a mix of electrolytes, vitamins, amino acids, and hydrating fluids, is infused over the course of 30 to 60 minutes. Athletes are advised to relax during the infusion, and many clinics provide a comfortable, medical-grade environment with supportive amenities. The infusion process is monitored closely, with vital signs checked periodically to ensure that the body is responding favorably.
Qualifications of Providers Administering Athletic IV Therapy
The safety of IV therapy protocols is largely reliant on the qualifications and expertise of the providers. At leading wellness clinics, such as WellSpot IV, treatments are administered by licensed medical professionals including registered nurses and physician assistants who have specialized training in IV therapy and sports medicine. These practitioners are well-versed in recognizing potential contraindications, managing any adverse reactions, and ensuring that the nutrient formulations are tailored to the specific requirements of each athlete. Regular training, adherence to state and federal safety guidelines, and continuous monitoring of clinical practices ensure that IV drips are administered safely and effectively.
Ensuring the Safety and Efficacy of IV Drips in Sports
To ensure the highest level of safety and efficacy, specialized IV drips are prepared under strictly controlled conditions. Clinics follow rigorous sterile protocols and quality assurance measures, including the use of disposable IV kits and adherence to infection control standards. Moreover, the ingredients used in the infusions are often sourced from reputable suppliers with documented clinical efficacy. Continuous monitoring of treatment outcomes and adverse event reporting are integral components of the administration process. Alongside clinical practices, athletes are educated on how to recognize signs of potential side effects, ensuring prompt intervention if necessary.
Potential Side Effects and How They Are Managed
Although specialized IV drips are generally safe, some athletes might experience mild side effects such as temporary bruising, slight swelling, or mild discomfort at the injection site. In rare cases, allergic reactions or electrolyte imbalances can occur if an infusion is not properly matched to the individual's needs. However, such occurrences are minimized through careful pre-treatment screening and responsive monitoring. Providers are trained to manage any adverse events immediately, using established emergency protocols when necessary. Frequent post-infusion evaluations help ensure that any abnormalities are swiftly addressed, ultimately enhancing overall safety and therapeutic success.
Frequency and Timing of Specialized IV Drips for Sustained Athletic Benefit
The frequency and timing of IV drip sessions depend on the individual athlete’s training schedule, performance demands, and overall health status. Some athletes may benefit from regular maintenance drips on a weekly or biweekly basis, while others might require targeted infusions before major competitions or during intensive training periods. Consulting with a sports medicine specialist can help determine the optimal schedule, ensuring that the benefits of IV therapy are sustained over time without risking over-treatment. The goal is to integrate IV therapy seamlessly into an athlete’s overall performance enhancement strategy, maximizing recovery and maintaining peak performance throughout the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are specialized IV drips for athletes? A: Specialized IV drips for athletes are intravenous infusions custom-formulated with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants designed to support hydration, muscle recovery, and overall performance. They provide immediate nutrient delivery, bypassing the digestive system for enhanced bioavailability.
Q: Who should consider using specialized IV drips? A: Athletes experiencing muscle cramp, fatigue, and dehydration, or those needing rapid recovery after intense workouts or competitions, can benefit from IV drips. They are especially useful for individuals with nutritional deficiencies and high-performance demands.
Q: Are there risks associated with IV drip therapy? A: While IV therapy is generally safe when administered by qualified professionals, potential risks include mild side effects such as bruising or swelling. Strict sterile protocols and ongoing monitoring help minimize any adverse reactions.
Q: How often should an athlete receive IV drip therapy? A: Frequency varies based on training intensity and nutritional needs. Some athletes may benefit from weekly sessions, while others use pre- and post-event drips strategically. A personalized plan developed with a healthcare professional is essential.
Q: Can IV drips improve mental focus and recovery? A: Yes, specialized IV drips contain neuroprotective nutrients and antioxidants that support cognitive clarity, reduce oxidative stress, and accelerate muscle repair. This results in enhanced mental focus and faster recovery times following intense activities.
Q: How do I know which IV drip is right for me? A: The best approach is to consult with a healthcare provider or sports medicine specialist who can assess your individual nutritional needs and performance goals. They will help tailor an IV therapy plan that offers the most benefit for your athletic regimen.
Recover Like Pros
Specialized IV drips offer a scientific, efficient, and personalized method to enhance athletic performance, boost recovery, and maintain overall wellness. Through the immediate delivery of essential nutrients and hydration, these therapies address critical physiological needs, from energy production to muscle repair. Athletes embracing IV therapy report not only improved endurance and reduced fatigue but also enhanced cognitive clarity and quicker recovery times. For those looking to optimize their performance and reduce recovery periods, specialized IV drips represent a cutting-edge alternative medicine approach that is rapidly gaining recognition in the world of sports.