Are you considering your first chiropractic adjustment?
Or you've just had an adjustment and want to find out if your post-adjustment feelings are normal.
After many pops and cracks, you sit up and suddenly feel re-energized, your range of motion is improved, and your muscles feel relaxed with the blood circulation flowing again.
You might wonder what to expect after the bliss wears off, or why you don't feel any different.
Well, you're in the right place! In this article, we're popping and cracking all the post-adjustment questions and expectations.
Does the "Adjustment" hurt?
Let's start with the adjustment.
The chiropractor adjustment is when your chiropractor uses their hands or a small instrument to apply controlled force to the spinal joint, often called spinal manipulation. Learn more about chiropractic benefits.
Chiropractic adjustments offer little to no pain during a procedure. Your chiropractor will apply a controlled amount of force to your joints, which creates a cracking or popping noise as the gas leaves your joints. While this may sound painful, it doesn't feel painful.
At your first chiropractic appointment, your chiropractor will likely ask you questions about your medical history and any current symptoms you're experiencing. They may also perform a physical exam, including checking your posture, range of motion, and spinal alignment.
Ask your chiropractor any questions you have about the treatment process or let them know if something doesn't feel right! They'll be happy to explain their techniques and approach to care.
How Will I Feel After My First Adjustment?
Chiropractic treatment is a holistic treatment known to help you relax and improve your overall health. That said, you may experience some strange sensations after a chiropractic adjustment.
Immediate, elevated feeling
Mild Soreness or aches
Tiredness
I feel great!
After your adjustment, you may feel immediate relief if your body has been out of alignment for a long time. The relief may not last long as it can take some time for your muscles to adjust to holding your joints in proper alignment. Don't be discouraged, though! The relief will last longer and longer after every adjustment.
I am sore!
On the other hand, you may experience discomfort after an adjustment. This can happen because your body is not used to being in proper alignment, and you may feel sore or achy in your joints. If this happens, don't hesitate to ask your chiropractor for advice on alleviating any discomfort.
I feel nothing!
It's also possible that you won't feel any different after an adjustment. This doesn't mean that the adjustment wasn't effective; it simply means that your body has responded differently. It may take a day or two for you to notice any changes in your body, and some people may not feel anything until their second or third adjustment. Sticking to your chiropractor's treatment plan for optimal results.
What should I do after my Chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, outpatient procedure. In general, you should be able to resume your normal life activities. Here is a list of reminders for optimal results after your first adjustment.
Hydrate – The adjustment is changing your internal chemistry and releasing toxins. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out these toxins and promote fast healing. Drinking more water in general is always a good idea.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise – You will want to keep moving. Keep it light and just enough to stimulate the blood flow. Try to avoid dynamic movements. Your chiropractor will give you guidelines and may ask you to refrain from moving for hours or days.
Do your Homework – After your adjustment, your chiropractor may recommend some "homework" for you to continue your therapy. These recommendations can include exercises, stretches, and advice on improving your posture, nutrition, weight, and managing stress. Additionally, they may suggest using ice/heat therapy, topical analgesics, or electrical muscle stimulation to support your treatment.
Eat Healthy – Your body needs nutrient-dense foods to replenish and repair. Avoid eating foods that cause inflammation.
Tune in to your body – As your body adjusts to the treatment, you may experience some unusual tingling and cooling sensations. While not necessarily a cause for concern, it's important to listen to your body, monitor the sensations and communicate any concerns with your chiropractor.
Remember, the goal of chiropractic care is to restore your health over the long term, so your chiropractor will encourage you to learn new ways to position your body and incorporate stretches into your daily routine.
Are there Side Effects for a Chiropractic Adjustment?
While it is generally considered safe, it's important to note that some side effects are associated with this treatment. Although most people may only experience minor side effects such as headaches, fatigue, or localized pain that typically resolves within a few days, some patients may experience more serious symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or an exacerbation of pain.
It's crucial to tune into your body and remember that if you encounter any unusual or severe side effects after a chiropractic adjustment, seek medical attention immediately to ensure prompt evaluation and treatment.
Why do I feel weird after a chiropractic adjustment?
When you live with a misaligned spine, toxins from your body gather bubbles around the joints. If you are feeling "weird" or just "off" after your first adjustment, rest assured that this is a normal reaction to the toxins leaving your body. If you receive massage therapy, you may experience a similar release.
What toxins are released after a chiropractic adjustment?
Your body has toxins from the water you drink, food, environment and other sources that people may be exposed to daily. Chiropractic adjustments aim to reduce inflammation in the spine and connecting areas, so when you hear that famous "Pop" and "Crack" you can expect that toxins are released into your bloodstream at that time.
Some of the ways you might feel weird after chiropractic adjustments include dizziness, nausea, flu-like symptoms, sweating, fatigue, digestive changes and headaches.
To alleviate the toxic release symptoms faster, drink plenty of water and tea, preferably diuretic tea. This will help your joints and nervous system and aid your body in getting rid of toxins.
Why do I sleep so well after an adjustment?
Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. The great news in this chaotic world today is that chiropractic adjustments can actually help improve sleep quality.
Bring on the Z's!
Chiropractic care can alleviate pain and discomfort by aligning the spine and reducing inflammation which can regulate the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels that can interfere with sleep. Patients who receive regular chiropractic care may fall asleep more easily, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more rested and refreshed.
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and proper sleep hygiene practices is important to maximize the benefits of chiropractic care on sleep.
How long should I wait between adjustments?
The recovery time for chiropractic care varies depending on the individual's specific condition, the severity of symptoms, and the frequency of chiropractic treatments. Some people feel relief immediately after a single chiropractic adjustment, while others may require several sessions to achieve optimal results. Typically, patients who receive chiropractic care can expect to experience some mild soreness or discomfort for up to 24-48 hours after their treatment.
When you are just starting a new treatment plan, it's common to have adjustments multiple times a week. As your body begins to heal, that number could drop to just once a week. And if you are pain-free and simply want to maintain your lifestyle, you might only need to get an adjustment once or twice a month.
Are there risks with Chiropractic Care?
A chiropractic adjustment is a medical procedure and it's important only to receive adjustments from a licensed, professional chiropractor to minimize any risk.
These risks are rare, but nevertheless, you must consider them prior to your first chiropractic adjustment.
A chance of a herniated disk or aggravation of an already herniated disk
Nerve compression in the lower spinal column
A chance of stroke related to a neck adjustment (this risk is minimal)
Remember, everyone responds differently to chiropractic care, so it's important to communicate any questions or concerns with your chiropractor. With time and consistent care, chiropractic adjustments can help improve your overall health and wellness.
At Geaux Chiropractic we are here to answer your questions and provide the best possible care to help you live a stress-free and pain-free life. We are passionate about a holistic approach to your health and don't just don't fix the pain, we understand it for your long-term health.
Schedule your first adjustment with Geaux Chiro Services
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