So you just had your first chiropractic adjustment, or maybe you’re a seasoned chiropractic care patient. Either way, it’s natural to wonder what to expect after a chiropractic adjustment. Understanding what happens to the body and how you might feel can help ease any concerns and make the most of your chiropractic experience.
Dr. McIver from Northside Chiropractic perfectly captures the three main experiences patients might have after an adjustment:
- Feeling Fantastic: This is the ideal scenario, but Dr. McIver acknowledges it’s not always the immediate outcome. Chiropractic care is a process, and adjustments build on each other.
- Not Feeling Much: This might seem counterintuitive, but it can simply mean your body quickly adapted to the adjustment. Don’t worry, the chiropractor has a care plan in place to address this.
- Feeling a Bit Sore: This is actually a good sign! Similar to muscle soreness after exercise, it indicates your body is responding to the adjustment and making positive changes.
What Happens To The Body After a Chiropractic Adjustment?
Chiropractic adjustments aim to improve spinal alignment and joint function, potentially reducing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being. During an adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled force to specific areas of the spine or joints. This can introduce changes to your nervous system, which plays a crucial role in coordinating body functions.
Here’s a breakdown of some potential first post-adjustment experiences:
- Soreness: As Dr. McIver mentioned, slight soreness is a common response. Your body is adjusting to a new alignment, and muscles and ligaments might need time to adapt. This soreness typically subsides within a few days.
- Headaches: Some patients experience temporary headaches after an adjustment. These can be caused by minor shifts in the spine or the release of built-up tension.
Tip: Drinking plenty of water and applying a cold compress to the forehead can help alleviate these headaches.
- Fatigue: The adjustment process can trigger the body’s healing response, leading to temporary fatigue. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can help counteract this.
- Increased Range of Motion: One of the joys of chiropractic care! After an adjustment, you might experience improved flexibility and a greater range of motion in your joints.
- Improved Sleep: Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain and discomfort, which can lead to more restful sleep.
Feeling Great After Your Chiropractic Adjustment Journey
Remember, chiropractic care is a journey, not a one-time fix. By understanding what to expect after a chiropractic adjustment and following what to do tips after your chiropractic adjustment, can enhance the benefits of your chiropractic experience and move towards a healthier, more pain-free you.