Is It Normal to Feel Sore After Seeing a Chiropractor?
Updated: Aug 7
If you have never sought chiropractic care before, the thought of someone manipulating your spine likely sounds painful and stressful. You might even worry that your chiropractor could make your injuries worse. But here’s the good news: While a bit of soreness is typical after a chiropractic treatment, it’s not permanent. Furthermore, many people find that chiropractic care reduces back, neck, and other types of chronic pain At MŪV Chiropractic Boulder, we firmly believe in the transformative power of proper chiropractic care. Your fear of further pain should not stop you from seeking the help you need. It's normal to feel a bit sore after seeing a chiropractor, as your body adjusts to the treatment.
Expect Some Soreness After Seeing a Chiropractor
Chiropractic care involves gentle yet effective manipulations of the spine and joints. These adjustments can release tension and restore mobility, leading to a sense of relief. However, as your body adapts to these changes, it’s normal to experience some soreness. This soreness is like the feeling you get after a good workout. It’s a sign that your body is responding and adapting to the treatment.
While some soreness is normal, it’s essential to listen to your body. If you experience sharp pain, numbness, or other severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms could indicate that your body is reacting differently to the adjustments, and further evaluation may be necessary.
After your chiropractic session at MŪV Chiropractic Boulder, you can typically expect the following symptoms:
Mild Muscle Soreness: Your muscles may feel tender or slightly stiff as they adjust to their new alignment.
Fatigue: Feeling tired after your appointment is typical as your body adapts to the changes.
Mild Discomfort in Adjusted Areas: You might notice some discomfort where the chiropractor made their adjustments, but this should diminish within a day or two.
Temporary Headache: Some clients report a mild headache post-adjustment, which usually resolves quickly.
Reasons You Might Feel Sore After a Chiropractor Visit
Experiencing some soreness after a chiropractic visit is not only common but also a sign that your body is responding to the treatment. Understanding why you might feel sore can help you better understand the chiropractic process.
Muscle Adaptation: Your muscles are accustomed to supporting your spine and joints in a certain way. When a chiropractor makes adjustments, your muscles need to adapt to the new alignment. This adaptation process can cause temporary soreness, similar to how you feel after starting a new exercise routine.
Release of Tension: Chiropractic adjustments often target areas where people hold tension and stress. When this tension is released, it can result in a feeling of soreness.
Increased Blood Flow: Chiropractic care can improve circulation in the treated areas. Increased blood flow helps in healing but can also lead to temporary inflammation and soreness as the body undergoes the healing process.
Joint Mobilization: Adjustments often involve mobilizing joints that may have been immobile or restricted in movement for some time. This mobilization can cause soreness as the joints start to move in ways they haven’t in a while.
Nervous System Response: Your nervous system can react to chiropractic adjustments. This response is a natural part of the healing process but can result in temporary soreness as the body adjusts to the changes.
Emotional Release: For some, chiropractic adjustments can also lead to an emotional release. This is because physical tension in the body is frequently tied to emotional stress. When this tension is released, some people feel emotional relief as well as physical soreness.
Tips for Soreness After a Chiropractor Visit
It’s common to experience some soreness after a chiropractic session, but several ways exist to manage and ease this discomfort. These strategies can enhance your recovery and improve your overall chiropractic experience.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water after your chiropractic session. Hydration helps to flush out toxins released during the adjustments and can reduce inflammation and soreness.
Apply Ice or Heat
Depending on your chiropractor’s advice, applying ice or heat to sore areas can help. Ice can reduce inflammation and numb sore tissues, while heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow.
Gentle Stretching
Engage in gentle stretching exercises, especially if your chiropractor recommends them. Stretching can help maintain the effects of your adjustment and reduce muscle tension.
Rest and Relaxation
Give your body time to rest and heal. Avoid strenuous activities for a day or two after your chiropractic session to allow your body to adapt to the changes.
Take a Warm Bath
A warm bath can soothe sore muscles and provide relief. Adding Epsom salts can enhance this effect, as magnesium can help reduce muscle soreness.
Follow-Up Exercises
If your chiropractor recommends specific exercises, make sure to follow them. These exercises are designed to support the adjustments made and can help prevent further discomfort.
Monitor Your Posture
Be mindful of your posture, as poor posture can undo the benefits of your chiropractic adjustments and contribute to ongoing soreness.
Get Adequate Sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for the body’s healing process. Ensure you get enough rest to allow your body to recover.
Nutrition
Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce soreness. Foods like berries, nuts, leafy greens, and fatty fish can be beneficial.
When to See a Doctor for Pain After a Chiropractor Appointment
If you are sore after a chiropractor appointment, it typically does not last long. However, contact your chiropractor or see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Sharp or Severe Pain
Numbness or Tingling
Loss of Movement
Dizziness or Vertigo
Severe or Persistent Headaches
Vision or Speech Changes
Fever or Chills
Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control
Chest Pain or Difficulty Breathing
Unusual Swelling or Redness
Contact Our Boulder, CO, Chiropractor & Yoga Office Now
If you have any questions about what chiropractic care involves or experience severe pain after an appointment, the team at MŪV Chiropractic Boulder in Boulder, CO, can help. Call (303) 500-8903 for an appointment or reach out online for more information.
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