Sports Chiropractor Sydney
Sports injury assessment and treatment in Maroubra, Eastern Suburbs
Maximise Your Sporting Performance with Sports Chiropractic
Hi, I’m Dr Matthew Alch (Chiropractor), your local sports chiropractor at Sydney Spinal Care. I enjoy helping athletes of all levels, from the weekend warrior to the elite performer. I may help you:
Ease pain and injury that is hindering your ability to compete
Support your joints, muscles and nervous system for better athletic function
Get back to training with a clear plan
Your new patient consultation includes your first treatment, plus advice on stretching, exercise and home care.
Common Sporting Injuries We See
We often help runners, cyclists, footballers, basketball and netball players, and people who lift weights with:
Shoulder / elbow
Shoulder impingement
Shoulder dysfunction
Elbow injury/golfers elbow
Hip and groin
Hip stiffness
Limited hip rotation
Knee
Runner’s knee pain
ITB syndrome
Jumper’s knee
Ankle and foot
Ankle sprains
Plantar fasciitis
What Happens at Your Sports Injury Assessment
1
Your history and goals
We talk about your injury, your sport and what you want to get back to.
2
Assessment
I check how your body moves to find the problem areas.
3
Your first treatment
If chiropractic care is suitable, your first treatment is included.
4
Your plan
You leave with home advice and when we’ll review your progress.
What is a Sports Chiropractor?
A sports chiropractor is trained to assess and manage musculoskeletal problems with a focus on physical performance and sport-specific stress. This includes injury recovery, rehabilitation, and strategies to help reduce the risk of future injuries.
We may help you with:
Acute pain from a sporting injury
Ongoing movement restriction or joint dysfunction
Overuse conditions from repetitive loading
Chronic pain that affects how you compete
Postural rehabilitation
Ongoing care to keep you training
Don’t Put Up With That Old Sports Injury
Sports injuries are common. In 2024–25, about 61,000 sports injuries led to a hospital stay in Australia. Cycling caused the most, with 7,200 hospitalisations, followed by soccer with 5,400 (AIHW).
Some sports carry more risk per player than others. Rugby had the highest hospitalisation rate of the sports compared, at 1,457 per 100,000 participants aged 15 and over. Basketball and netball recorded 2,009 and 1,244 hospitalisations respectively among players aged 15 and over (AIHW).
Most sports injuries never reach hospital, but many still affect how you train and compete. Whether you want to hit the track, tackle with confidence, set personal bests, recover better, or simply enjoy your chosen sport, I’m here to help.
How Much is a Sports Chiropractor?
Sports Chiropractic FAQs
Should I see a chiropractor or a physio for a sports injury?
Both can help with sports injuries, and many athletes see both. The right choice depends on your injury, your goals and the type of care you prefer.
At your first visit I’ll assess your injury, explain your options, and refer you to another practitioner if that suits you better.
Can a chiropractor help with knee, ankle or shoulder sports injuries?
Chiropractors assess and manage joints throughout the body, not only the spine. For knee, ankle and shoulder injuries, care may include gentle hands-on treatment of the joint and surrounding muscles, plus exercises to help you get back to sport.
We also look at other areas, such as your hips, spine and footwear (we provide custom orthotics), that may be adding load to the injured area.
When should I see a chiropractor after a sports injury?
Consider booking an assessment if pain lasts more than a few days, keeps coming back, or is affecting your training. Some symptoms need urgent medical assessment instead.
Examples include severe pain or swelling, being unable to bear weight, a visible deformity, numbness or weakness, or a head injury. If you’re unsure, seek medical advice first.
Do I need a referral to see a sports chiropractor?
No, you can book directly without a referral. A referral is needed if you’re accessing chiropractic through a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan or DVA-funded care.
Can I claim sports chiropractic on my private health insurance?
Many private health extras policies include chiropractic. Cover, annual limits and waiting periods vary between funds and policies, so check with your fund before your visit. We offer on-the-spot claiming through HICAPS.
Is chiropractic treatment safe after a sports injury?
Like any treatment, chiropractic carries some risks. Some people feel mild soreness or discomfort after treatment, which usually settles within 12 to 48 hours. Before any treatment, I take a full history and examination to check whether chiropractic care is suitable for your injury, and explain the risks so you can make an informed decision. If it isn’t suitable, I’ll refer you to the right practitioner.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your injury, how long you’ve had it and how much you’re training. After your first assessment, I’ll explain what treatment may involve and when we’ll review your progress. There’s no obligation to continue with care.
What should I wear and bring to my first sports chiro appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in, such as gym or sports gear. Bring any scans or reports related to your injury, and your health fund card. Your first visit includes a consultation, assessment and your first treatment.
Ready to Get Back in the Game?
With over 20 years of experience, I’ve been dedicated to helping Sydneysiders achieve their sporting goals. Let me help you perform at your best. Book your first consultation with Dr Matthew Alch (Chiropractor) at Sydney Spinal Care today.
14,000
New Patients Helped
1991
Clinic Established
6 Days
Open Per Week