Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first visit to Thrive Sports Medicine in Salida, CO.
General
Common questions about our practice and what we do.
What does Thrive Sports Medicine specialize in?
Thrive Sports Medicine is a results-oriented physical medicine practice specializing in acupuncture, dry needling, bodywork and myofascial release, pain management, injury rehabilitation, cupping therapy, moxibustion, herbal medicine, and athletic performance and recovery. Dr. Tyler Andres combines Eastern and Western approaches to treat the root causes of pain and dysfunction.
Where is Thrive Sports Medicine located?
We are located at 129 1/2 West 3rd Street, Unit #7, Salida, CO 81201. The clinic is in downtown Salida and serves patients from throughout the Arkansas Valley, including Buena Vista, Canon City, Poncha Springs, and surrounding communities.
What are your hours?
Our current hours are: Tuesday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Friday 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Sunday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. We are closed Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. We recommend booking in advance as appointment slots fill quickly.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Andres?
No referral is needed. You can book an appointment directly through our website or by calling 719-626-1015. Dr. Andres is happy to coordinate with your primary care physician, chiropractor, or physical therapist if you are working with a broader care team.
Treatments & Services
What to know about our therapies and how they work.
What is the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and works by stimulating specific points along energy pathways (meridians) to regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Dry needling targets myofascial trigger points, tight bands of muscle that refer pain and restrict movement. Dr. Andres is trained in both and often combines them within a single treatment session depending on your needs.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most patients describe acupuncture as a mild, dull sensation rather than pain. The needles used are extremely thin (much thinner than a hypodermic needle) and most people feel very little during insertion. Many patients find acupuncture deeply relaxing and some fall asleep during treatment.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and pain conditions, including back and neck pain, sciatica, joint pain, headaches and migraines, sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ, and chronic pain conditions. We also work with athletes on performance optimization and recovery.
What is myofascial release?
Myofascial release is a hands-on therapy that targets the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles throughout your body. When fascia becomes restricted due to injury, overuse, or inactivity, it can cause pain, tightness, and limited range of motion. Dr. Andres uses sustained pressure and stretching techniques to release these restrictions and restore normal movement.
What is cupping therapy and does it leave marks?
Cupping therapy uses suction cups placed on the skin to increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing in targeted areas. Cupping can leave circular marks on the skin that range from light pink to deep purple depending on the amount of stagnation in the tissue. These marks are not bruises and typically fade within 3 to 7 days.
Do you prescribe herbal medicine?
Yes. Dr. Andres may recommend Chinese herbal formulas or supplements as part of your treatment plan when appropriate. Herbal medicine can support your body's healing process between sessions and is especially helpful for chronic conditions, digestive issues, stress, and immune support. All recommendations are tailored to your individual needs.
Your First Visit
What to expect when you come in for the first time.
What happens during the first appointment?
Your first visit begins with a thorough intake and assessment. Dr. Andres will discuss your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, activity level, and treatment goals. He will then perform a physical evaluation to identify areas of pain, restriction, or dysfunction. Based on this assessment, he will develop a personalized treatment plan and typically begin treatment during the same visit.
How long is a typical appointment?
Initial visits typically last 60 to 90 minutes to allow time for a full assessment and treatment. Follow-up appointments are usually 45 to 60 minutes depending on the complexity of your condition and the therapies being used.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows access to the areas being treated. Athletic wear or shorts and a t-shirt work well for most appointments. Dr. Andres will provide draping for privacy during treatment as needed.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your condition, its severity, and how long you have been experiencing symptoms. Acute issues may resolve in 2 to 4 sessions. Chronic conditions typically require a longer course of treatment, often 6 to 12 sessions. Dr. Andres will discuss a recommended treatment plan during your first visit and adjust it based on how your body responds.
Booking & Payment
Scheduling, insurance, and payment information.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can book online through our appointment scheduling page or call us directly at 719-626-1015. If you have questions before booking, feel free to reach out through our contact page and Dr. Andres or a team member will get back to you.
Do you accept insurance?
Please contact us directly at 719-626-1015 to discuss insurance coverage and payment options. Coverage for acupuncture and related services varies by plan and provider. We can help you understand your benefits and explore options for making treatment affordable.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Payment is due at the time of service. If you have questions about pricing, please visit our pricing page or contact us directly.
For Athletes & Active Individuals
Questions from runners, cyclists, skiers, climbers, and hikers.
I am not injured. Can I still benefit from treatment?
Absolutely. Many of our patients come in for athletic performance and recovery support rather than injury treatment. Regular sessions can help you recover faster between training sessions, prevent injuries, improve range of motion, and keep your body performing at its best throughout the season.
How close to a race or event can I get treatment?
Light acupuncture and gentle bodywork can be done 24 to 48 hours before competition. Deep dry needling or intensive myofascial work is best scheduled at least 3 to 5 days before an event to allow your body to fully integrate the treatment. Dr. Andres can help you plan sessions around your training and event calendar.
What sports do you work with most often?
Given our location in Salida, Dr. Andres commonly works with trail runners, mountain bikers, road cyclists, skiers (alpine and nordic), rock climbers, kayakers, and CrossFit athletes. His approach is adaptable to any sport or physical activity. The principles of movement efficiency, recovery, and injury prevention apply across all disciplines.
VISIT OUR CLINIC
Thrive Sports Medicine, Salida CO
Thrive Sports Medicine, LLC
129 1/2 West 3rd Street, Unit #7
Salida, CO 81201
Phone: 719-626-1015
Email: thrivesalida@gmail.com
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
