top of page
Search

From the Crease to the Clinic: How Hockey Shaped My Approach to Sports Chiropractic

  • Writer: Andrew Kinach
    Andrew Kinach
  • Mar 13
  • 2 min read

The Humble Beginnings

Dr. Andrew Kinach playing goalie in hockey

Growing up in Canada, hockey wasn’t just a sport—it was a way of life. As the youngest in my family, I was naturally recruited to be the goalie whenever my siblings needed someone to shoot on and I still wear the pads today. That’s where my journey began, and from backyard rinks to competitive leagues, the game became a core part of who I am.


The Journey To The Clinic

I competed at various levels throughout my life, but when the time came, I made the difficult decision to step away from junior hockey to focus on my education. While my competitive playing days ended, the game never stopped shaping me. Hockey taught me that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about relentless effort, grit, and pushing past limitations. It reinforced that teamwork is about trust, knowing your role, and communication. And perhaps most importantly, it taught me to focus on what I can control—whether it was preparing for the next shot, recovering from a tough loss, or adapting when things didn’t go as planned. These lessons didn’t just make me a better player; they shaped the way I approach challenges, both in life and in my work as a sports chiropractor.


My Approach to Sports Chiropractic Care

playing hockey on a backyard rink

But how does this help in the clinic? My deep understanding of the game, biomechanics, and causes of injury allows me to help all athletes recover faster and perform at their best. I’ve been in their skates—I know the frustration of injuries, the desire to return to the game, and the physical demands sports place on the body. My goal is to not only treat pain but to empower athletes with the tools and knowledge to prevent future injuries and keep them doing what they love—playing the game.

 
 
 

Comments


Wondering if we are a good fit for you? 

We offer a FREE no-obligation consultation over the phone! This is a great opportunity to get to know your chiropractor, Dr. Andrew Kinach, more personally and discuss what will bring you into the office from the comfort of your home. He will also be able to answer any questions you may have regarding treatment, insurance, or anything else on your mind! Are you ready to live pain free?

© 2025 Kinach Chiropractic. All Rights Reserved

23505 Smithtown Rd, Ste 100

Excelsior MN, 55331

To Schedule An Appointment

Call 612-217-1159

Book Online

bottom of page