Sports Chiropractor in Bartlett, TN for Injury & Performance
Hands-on injury recovery and performance care for athletes of every level
Sports Injury Care That Keeps You in the Game
Care is led by Dr. Jared Worthington, DC, who earned a BS in Human Health and Performance from the University of Tennessee at Martin before his Doctor of Chiropractic at Logan University. He is certified in extremity rehabilitation, myofascial release and functional dry needling, so he treats shoulders, knees and ankles as carefully as the spine.
The Challenge
When a Sports Injury Will Not Settle Down
Most sports injuries start small. A tight hamstring you play through, a shoulder that aches after every bullpen session, a heel that hurts on the first steps of a morning run. Rest helps for a few days, then the pain returns the moment you train hard again. Meanwhile your body quietly compensates: you shorten your stride, change your swing or favor one side, and a second problem starts to build on top of the first.
Sports injury treatment works best when it addresses both the painful tissue and the movement pattern behind it. We restore joint motion with adjustments, calm irritated muscle and tendon with therapies like dry needling in Bartlett, TN and shockwave therapy for tendonitis, then rebuild strength through rehabilitation and therapeutic exercise so the area can handle load again. The goal is a safe, gradual return to your sport, not just a quiet week off.
What Is a Sports Chiropractor?
Conservative Care for Active Bodies
A sports chiropractor is a Doctor of Chiropractic who treats the joints, muscles and tendons athletes load hardest, using non-surgical, drug-free care for sprains, strains and tendon pain. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases notes most sports injuries respond to conservative care.
Visits pair spinal and extremity adjustments with therapies that support tissue healing. As pain settles, exercise rebuilds strength and control so the injured area tolerates training again. Many patients move more easily within a few visits.
Treatment Timeline
Injuries We Treat
Sports Injuries We Help With
From Overuse to Acute Strain
Tendonitis
Shockwave, laser and loading work for irritated elbow, knee or Achilles tendons
Plantar Fasciitis
Relief for heel pain that flares with running, jumping and long practices
Muscle Knots
Dry needling and soft tissue work to release tight, overworked muscles
Low Back Strain
Adjustments and core rehab for back pain from lifting, swinging or sprinting
Neck and Shoulder Pain
Mobility care for stiffness after contact, throwing or overhead training
Disc Irritation
Conservative options when a bulging disc limits training or causes leg pain
Why It Helps
Benefits of Sports Chiropractic
Recover and Perform
- 01
Faster Return to Play
A structured plan that moves you from pain relief to full training safely
- 02
No Drugs or Surgery
Conservative care that avoids pain medication dependence and downtime
- 03
Better Joint Motion
Spinal and extremity adjustments restore range you need for your sport
- 04
Healthier Soft Tissue
Graston, dry needling and shockwave target stubborn muscle and tendon pain
- 05
Lower Re-Injury Risk
Corrective exercise builds strength so the same injury is less likely to return
- 06
One Clinic, One Plan
Exam, on-site X-ray, hands-on care and rehab all under one roof in Bartlett
Sports Chiropractic vs. Alternatives
Not sure where to start, I was referred here by my physical therapist and was honestly pretty skeptical at first. But it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience. Everyone is supportive and genuinely cares about your well-being. Dr. Worthington brings incredible energy and passion, and it’s clear he truly cares about helping you make real progress. I’ve had two back surgeries, and now on a third journey through back pain. After being adjusted and traction, I’m already noticing significant improvements. For the first time in a while, I feel like I’m starting to get my life back. A special shout out to Kayln, she’s incredibly friendly and takes customer service to a new level. Thank you for being so accommodating with my schedule.
Jamil Abdelfattah Absolutely amazing experience at this chiropractor office! From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable. The office itself is clean, organized, and has such a positive atmosphere. A huge thank you to Dr. Jared for providing outstanding care and making the entire experience feel personal and professional. He took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the visit. You can truly tell he cares about his patients and wants the best for them. Also, Michelle and Kalyn at the front desk was incredible — so kind, helpful, and attentive from start to finish. She made scheduling and check-in easy and stress-free and always had a friendly attitude. If you’re looking for a chiropractor office with amazing staff, excellent care, and a welcoming environment, I highly recommend this place!
Alexander Graham I love every experience I have at Worthington Chiropractic. All of the staff work together to make sure every patient’s needs are met. I am especially thankful for Kalyn for her patience with my daughter when she comes with me. They are a family friendly business. 💗
Karina Morgan I was at my wits end with hip pain. I was informed about how great Dr. Worthington was, and that was absolutely true!! The ladies at the front desk Michelle and Kaylin, were so very sweet, kind, and very helpful. I had NEVER been to a chiropractor before but I trust Dr. Worthington and getting my hip corrected. I highly recommend the office!!!
Tammy Stevens Dr Worthington is amazing. He is so knowledgeable and explains everything so thoroughly. I instantly felt safe and comfortable in his care. I trust him and his staff. They are kind, patient and very accommodating with my schedule so i can get in and out before work. I’m so glad The Joint Clinic recommended me here!!!
Sharita Baker 
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sports Injury Care?
Athletes of Every Level
Ideal Candidates for Sports Injury Care 
-
Runners, lifters, golfers and team-sport athletes with muscle, joint or tendon pain - Athletes with tendonitis in Bartlett, TN or plantar fasciitis heel pain from repetitive training
- People with recurring trigger points and muscle knots that limit performance
- Active adults with back pain from lifting or sport or neck pain after contact or overhead work
- Athletes with a herniated or bulging disc who want conservative care before injections or surgery
- Athletes cleared to train who want a gradual, guided return after a layoff
Who Should Wait or See Another Provider First
- Suspected fracture, dislocation or complete tendon or ligament tear
- Any head injury with confusion, vomiting, memory loss or worsening headache
- Severe swelling, deformity or inability to bear weight
- Numbness, weakness or loss of bowel or bladder control
- Fever or signs of infection around a joint
Your Visit
What Happens During Sports Injury Treatment
Step-by-Step Process
- 01
Exam and Screen
Dr. Worthington reviews how you got hurt, tests strength and motion, and takes X-rays on-site if needed.
- 02
Hands-On Care
He uses spinal and extremity adjustments, Graston or myofascial release to restore motion and ease tension.
- 03
Tissue Therapies
When helpful, dry needling, shockwave, cold laser or EMS are added to target stubborn muscle and tendon pain.
- 04
Rehab and Return
Dr. Worthington coaches corrective exercises and a step-by-step plan to return to full training safely.
Safety First
Side Effects and Safety
What Is Normal
Common, Short-Lived Reactions
The most common reaction is mild soreness or stiffness in the treated area for 24 to 48 hours, similar to the feeling after a hard workout. Dry needling can leave a small bruise or a dull ache, and Graston work may cause temporary redness. These usually fade on their own and often lessen as your body adapts to care.
Less Common Concerns
Serious complications from chiropractic and conservative sports injury care are rare when patients are screened properly. That is why we ask detailed questions about your injury, look for red flags and use X-rays when the exam calls for them.
Our Safety Approach
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that spinal manipulation is generally safe when performed by a trained, licensed practitioner. Dr. Worthington adjusts pressure and technique to your tolerance and refers out if symptoms point to a more serious injury.
Pricing
Sports Injury Treatment Cost in Bartlett, TN
Clear Pricing, Flexible Payment
How Much Does Sports Injury Care Cost?
Cost depends on the injury, how many visits you need and which therapies are part of your plan. A simple strain may resolve in a handful of visits, while a long-standing tendon problem may need a longer course with shockwave or laser. We explain your plan and costs after your exam, before you commit to anything.
Your First Visit
- Personalized consultation
- Full chiropractic exam
- X-rays, if needed
- Your first chiropractic adjustment
Flexible Payment Options
We offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit so you can spread the cost of a care plan over time. Contact our Bartlett, TN office with questions about payment before your visit.
The Worthington Difference
Why Choose Worthington Chiropractic for Sports Injury Care in Bartlett, TN
Bartlett's Hands-On Clinic
Performance Background
BS in Human Health and Performance plus extremity rehab certification
Full Toolkit
Adjustments, dry needling, Graston, shockwave, laser and EMS in one visit
On-Site X-Ray
Imaging when needed, so your plan starts with a clear picture
Walk-Ins Welcome
Open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM, for injuries that cannot wait
Award-Winning Clinic
Named best chiropractic clinic in the 2025 Memphis Most Awards
Trusted by Neighbors
Nearly 300 five-star Google reviews from Memphis-area patients
Explore More
Related Services
Treatments that often pair with a sports injury care plan.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Precise, hands-on spinal adjustments that restore alignment, ease pain and help you move freely.
Learn More
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Gentle, computer-controlled traction on the Triton 6M to ease disc pressure and nerve pain.
Learn More 
Prenatal Chiropractic
Gentle, pregnancy-safe adjustments for back, hip and pelvic comfort as your body changes.
Learn More Common Questions
Sports Chiropractor FAQs
Answers for Athletes
How much does it cost to see a sports chiropractor in Bartlett?
Your first visit includes a consultation, full exam, X-rays if needed and your first adjustment. The cost of ongoing care depends on your injury and plan, and we explain it clearly after your exam. Cherry and CareCredit financing are available.
How long is a sports chiropractic visit?
Most follow-up visits take about 20 to 45 minutes. Your first visit runs longer because it includes a detailed history, movement and strength testing, and X-rays when they are needed. Visits that add shockwave, laser or dry needling may take a little more time.
Does sports injury treatment hurt?
Most treatment is comfortable, though some techniques can feel intense on a sore area. Graston work and dry needling may cause brief discomfort or a local twitch, and mild soreness for a day or two is common. Dr. Worthington adjusts pressure to your tolerance and checks in throughout.
How soon will I feel better?
Many athletes notice easier movement and less pain within the first few visits. Acute strains often improve faster than tendon or long-standing overuse injuries, which can take several weeks of consistent care and home exercise. Results vary, and we track your progress at each visit.
How often will I need to come in?
Frequency depends on your injury and goals. Many plans start with more frequent visits while pain is high, then taper as you get stronger and return to training. Once you are back to full activity, some athletes choose occasional visits to stay ahead of tightness during their season.
Is a sports chiropractor different from physical therapy?
Yes, though the two overlap and can work well together. A sports chiropractor adds spinal and extremity adjustments to soft tissue work, therapies and exercise, while physical therapy centers mainly on guided exercise. Our rehabilitation therapy brings corrective exercise into your plan so you get both joint care and strength work.
Do I have to be a serious athlete to come in?
No. We treat high school and college athletes, weekend warriors, runners, lifters, golfers and people who simply want to stay active. We see patients of all ages, including kids and older adults, and tailor the pace of care to your sport, fitness level and goals.
Can you help me get back to my sport after an injury?
Yes, a guided return is a core part of care. After pain settles, Dr. Worthington builds a step-by-step plan that gradually increases load, speed and sport-specific movement. The aim is to return with the strength and control to handle training, lowering the chance of the same injury coming back.
Should I see you or go to urgent care?
Go to urgent care or the emergency room first for a suspected fracture, dislocation, head injury with confusion or vomiting, severe swelling or an inability to bear weight. For strains, sprains, tendon pain and muscle tightness, we are a good place to start, and walk-ins are welcome.
Can sports chiropractic improve performance, not just treat injuries?
It may help. Better joint motion, balanced muscle tension and targeted strength work can support how efficiently you move, which many athletes feel in their stride, swing or lift. We avoid promising performance gains, but improving movement is part of every plan we build. For athletes who also want to build muscle and definition, we offer Emsculpt Neo in Bartlett.
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 8AM to 6PM
- Phone
- (901) 519-7777
Ready to Feel Better?
Schedule Your Appointment
References
- Lauersen et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine. (2014). Meta-analysis of randomized trials finding that strength training and proprioception exercise reduced sports injuries. PMID: 24100287.
- Lauersen et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine. (2018). Strength training showed a dose-dependent, safe preventive effect on acute and overuse sports injuries. PMID: 30131332.
- Gattie et al., Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy. (2017). Systematic review and meta-analysis on the effectiveness of trigger point dry needling for musculoskeletal conditions, showing short-term pain reduction. PMID: 28158962.
- Xue et al., BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. (2024). Systematic review and meta-analysis supporting extracorporeal shockwave therapy for rotator cuff tendinopathy. PMID: 38704572.
- Nazari et al., Disability and Rehabilitation. (2023). Updated systematic review of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for upper body, lower body and spinal conditions. PMID: 35611579.
- Holm-Jensen et al., Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. (2025). Secondary prevention of musculoskeletal sports injuries: a scoping review of early detection and early intervention strategies. PMID: 41098638.