Written by Dr Ray Gaskey, USA DC ICSC
Reflections on Volunteering as a Chiropractor at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China
In August 2025, I had the privilege of traveling to Chengdu, China, to serve as a volunteer chiropractor for the athletes of the World Games. Over the course of three weeks, I worked hands-on with competitors from around the world, but some of my most meaningful experiences came from caring for the women’s softball teams. Alongside the clinical work, I was equally moved by the kindness and openness of the Chinese people, the richness of Chengdu’s culture, and the opportunity to explore beyond the city in places like Chongqing. Looking back, it was not just a professional experience—it was a personal journey that left me inspired, humbled, and grateful.
The Sports
The World Games embody a multitude of international sports. I had the privilege of working with athletes from numerous sports. My first few days were spent working with inline Hockey and Speed skating, but soon after woman’s softball became the focus of my days. All of the athletes treated were incredibly grateful for the care they received . I found them all to be dedicated, extremely well trained and persistent , often competing in back-to-back games that tested both their skill and stamina. In the arena of softball, repetitive strain on pitchers’ arms and shoulders was a common theme, while skaters and field players alike often came in with hip tightness after long hours competing on the rink or in the field.
I found myself not just adjusting spines and joints, but listening to athletes who were far from home, trying to stay sharp in the biggest games of their lives. A few moments stand out—like meeting and treating the athletic trainers and coaches for many of the teams including Japan, Chinese Taipei and most notably team USA. It’s still hard to explain the joy and professional satisfaction you feel when a high level play, coach or trainer smiles with relief and returns the next day to say she slept better after her adjustment. These small but powerful reminders underscored why I love chiropractic: it’s about restoring function, supporting confidence, and helping people perform at their best.
While I did treat athletes from other sports—including inline hockey, which carried its own set of unique challenges—my most meaningful bonds came through softball. Watching the athletes I had worked with step onto the field with renewed energy made the long days worthwhile.
Reconnecting with Peers and Learning from Colleagues
Another highlight of my time in Chengdu was reconnecting with chiropractic colleagues from around the world. Being in the same environment with doctors from different backgrounds, training styles, and clinical approaches created a unique space for professional growth. Between shifts, we shared techniques, compared case experiences, and exchanged perspectives on how to better serve athletes.
What I valued most was the sense of community. In the middle of a massive international sporting event, surrounded by thousands of athletes, coaches, and staff, we chiropractors formed our own small team. There was an unspoken understanding that we were all there for the same purpose: to serve. Learning from others—whether it was a subtle adjustment variation, a different approach to soft tissue work, or even advice on communicating through cultural barriers—expanded my own practice in meaningful ways.
Immersing Myself in Chengdu
Outside of the games, Chengdu itself became part of the experience. What struck me most was the warmth and generosity of the people. Even when language barriers made communication difficult, locals found ways to help—whether guiding me through the maze of city streets, sharing their favorite dishes, or teaching me a word or two of Mandarin. That kindness made me feel welcomed and connected, despite being halfway across the world.
The culture of Chengdu revealed itself in many ways. The city’s famous Sichuan cuisine lived up to its reputation, from fiery hot pot meals to street food full of bold flavors. I also had the chance to slow down and explore local temples and parks, where the pace of life felt both peaceful and grounded. One of the most memorable visits was to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Seeing these gentle animals up close, and witnessing the pride the locals felt in protecting them gave me a deeper appreciation of the cultural identity tied to the panda.
A Glimpse of Chongqing
During one of the free weekends, I took a day trip to Chongqing, a city built into steep hillsides overlooking the Yangtze River. If Chengdu felt grounded and calm, Chongqing felt vertical, bustling, and intense. Skyscrapers climbed above the riverbanks, neon lights filled the skyline, and the streets wound up and down the cliffs in endless layers. Sampling spicy local dishes and walking through crowded markets gave me another window into the diversity of Chinese life. It was a powerful reminder that even within the same region, China holds an incredible variety in culture and energy.
Lasting Impressions
As I reflect on my three weeks in Chengdu, what stands out most is the blend of professional growth and personal discovery. Professionally, I sharpened my ability to adapt under pressure, to meet the needs of athletes in real time, and to contribute to their success on the field. I also deepened my practice by learning from fellow chiropractors—colleagues who challenged me to think differently and inspired me with their passion for the profession.
Personally, I came away with a deeper appreciation for Chinese culture, for the kindness of the people I met, and for the universal human connections that come from caring for others. This experience reaffirmed for me that chiropractic is more than a career—it is a calling that opens doors to connection, service, and cultural exchange. I returned home with not only new clinical lessons but also a broader perspective on the world and the role I am privileged to play within it.
