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Writer's pictureDr John Gibson DC

Nitric Oxide in Sports Medicine: How to Power-Up N.O. Naturally Christchurch Clinic

Updated: Jun 9

Nitric oxide (NO) is a molecule produced naturally in the body that plays several important roles, including regulating blood flow, neurotransmission, and immune response.


Nitric Oxide is often restricted through imbalances and congestion in the body which has a flow on list of side effects. One of the main production sites for Nitric Oxide in the body is in the Sinus cavities. Sinusitis, chronic nasal congestion, deviated septum etc are all indicators your NO levels might be low.



Runners energised by N.O. Sports Chiropractic treatments Christchurch
Sports Medicine Christchurch N.O. Power Up the Body


Specific common indicators of Nitric Oxide (NO) deficiency can be easily overlooked, yet understanding these signs is crucial for maintaining optimal health. As we age, our body's capacity to naturally produce NO diminishes, heightening the risk of various symptoms related to impaired blood flow and essential bodily functions.


Awareness of these symptoms empowers individuals to take proactive measures to bolster NO levels.

Five key manifestations of Nitric Oxide deficiency:

  1. Visual Impairment: Diminished NO levels can contribute to impaired vision due to disruptions in intraocular pressure regulation. This can lead to fluid buildup in the eyes, resulting in reduced clarity of vision. Elevating dietary nitrate intake may offer relief and enhance visual acuity.

  2. Elevated Body Temperature and Reduced Mobility: Decreased NO synthesis in the central nervous system can elevate baseline body temperature, mimicking mild feverish sensations. Additionally, inadequate NO levels may manifest as discomfort and decreased mobility, including post-exercise soreness, reflecting compromised blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles.

  3. Persistent Stress: Chronic stress triggers physiological responses that can deplete NO levels, exacerbating symptoms such as increased blood pressure and impaired cardiovascular function. Managing stress through mindfulness techniques and lifestyle adjustments may help mitigate NO depletion.

  4. Fatigue and Low Energy: Fatigue and lethargy often accompany NO deficiency, stemming from impaired oxygen and nutrient transport facilitated by NO. Addressing NO depletion through dietary modifications and regular physical activity can revitalize energy levels and combat fatigue.

  5. Prolonged Recovery Times: Reduced NO availability hampers the body's ability to efficiently deliver nutrients to muscles, prolonging post-exercise recovery periods. Combating NO deficiency with targeted interventions, such as incorporating beet-based supplements post-workout, can expedite muscle repair and recovery.

  6. Male sexual performance: Nitric Oxide activates relaxation of corporal cavernosal smooth muscle tissue resulting in increased blood flow into the phallus resulting in an increased erection ability.


By recognising these telltale signs of NO deficiency, individuals can proactively address underlying imbalances and optimise their overall well-being.


Headache & Tendon, Christchurch Sports Chiropractic clinic, have two key leading edge treatments used in Sports Medicine that stimulates the production of Nitric Oxide. NasalRX stimulates the Nasal cavities where Nitric Oxide is produced to optimise production. Class 4 Orthopaedic Laser is used to promote Nitric Oxide production in the cells at injury sites to assist in rapid recovery.


In the context of athletic performance, NO is particularly interesting because of its role in vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels. This process improves blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles, which can enhance athletic performance in several ways:

  1. Increased Oxygen Delivery: Vasodilation facilitated by NO allows more oxygen-rich blood to reach working muscles. This can delay the onset of fatigue during aerobic exercise by ensuring muscles receive an adequate oxygen supply.

  2. Enhanced Nutrient Delivery: Along with oxygen, NO also facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients to muscles, including glucose and amino acids. This helps to sustain energy production and support muscle growth and repair.

  3. Improved Waste Removal: Efficient blood flow promoted by NO not only delivers nutrients but also helps remove metabolic waste products such as lactic acid. This can delay the onset of muscle fatigue and improve overall endurance.

  4. Muscle Pump: NO is also responsible for the "pump" sensation experienced during and after resistance training. This occurs as blood vessels in muscles expand, causing them to appear larger and feel more engorged. While this doesn't directly impact performance, it can be psychologically motivating and may promote muscle growth over time.

  5. Regulation of Mitochondrial Function: NO has been shown to influence mitochondrial function, the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production. By optimizing mitochondrial efficiency, NO may enhance overall energy metabolism and performance.


Apart from the leading strategies used at Headache & Tendon, Sports Chiropractic Clinic Christchurch, Athletes may utilise various other protocols, even if significantly less effective, to enhance NO production naturally, such as consuming foods rich in nitrate (which can be partly converted to NO in the body), engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate intake of nutrients involved in NO synthesis, such as arginine and citrulline.


For further enquiries into how our treatments can physically optimise your body's performance and health you can email your queries to support@headachetendon.com.au

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