Wilmington sports chiropractor volunteered skills at World University Winter Games
Over a period of 18 days, Wilmington sports chiropractor Christopher J. Harris, owner and operator of Quint Chiropractic, volunteered with 2023 FISU (Federation Internationale du Sport Universitaire, also known as the International University Sports Federation) World University Winter Games in Lake Placid, N.Y.
In total, there were over 2,500 athletes and coaches from more than 50 countries. This included 600 universities as athletes competed in 12 sports with 86 medal events.
Why volunteer with the winter games?
Harris always been interested in working with and providing chiropractic care for the athletic population throughout his career, but wasn't aware of the opportunity to help with the medical services for FISU.
Opportunity came Harris' way in November 2022, when he received a phone call from one of the medical service organizers asking if he would be interested in participating as a volunteer with the medical services for the 2023 Games.
"Without hesitation I gladly accepted the opportunity," said Harris.
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Preparing for the event
In order to treat the athletes, Harris' preparation included learning their events, which allowed him to better anticipate various injuries that were more likely to happen. With over 200 athletes at one village from 30 different countries, Harris had to become familiar with a translation app on his phone to better communicate.
What treatment did he provide?
From stretching, joint taping, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and more alongside chiropractic care, Harris was assigned to work the physiotherapy room 6-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m. each day.
How long have you been a chiropractor?
A chiropractor for nearly 14 years, Harris was the team physician for the local semi-professional Wilmington Tigers football team for three seasons, and a team chiropractor for the Wilmington Hammerheads for three seasons.
Harris is set for several domestic and international sporting travel engagements later this year and beyond, including the 2025 FISU World University Games in Italy and Germany.
Have you ever done anything like this before?
Harris travels each year as a part of the medical services team providing care for the athletes of the Nitro Circus, a professional sporting tour comprised of professional FMX and BMX riders.
However, the FISU Games was his first international event where athletes were coming to compete in events from so many countries.
What did you learn from this?
Harris have loved sharing things he learned along the journey of his career to others, especially those interested in becoming more involved with providing care for athletes.
"I think one of the biggest teachers in life is experience and the knowledge gained from it," Harris said.
He worked alongside nurse practitioners, emergency room medical staff, athletic trainers and more. An introductory meeting was held prior to the event where all had the opportunity to introduce themselves, backgrounds and disciplines, as well as what strengths and weaknesses were regarding athlete care.
"I am always reminded of how important it is to be a team player when there are several disciplines involved in a healthcare team," Harris said.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Wilmington sports chiropractor volunteered skills at winter games
