Chiropractic adjustment can solve a lot of health issues, primarily chronic pain from different parts of the body. However, what is the proper way to take care of your body after each session?
If you want to maximize the benefits of chiropractic treatment, here are some aftercare tips that you must know:
1. Wait before exercising
Many experienced chiropractors in metropolitan areas such as Salt Lake City get asked this question: “How soon can I do workouts after a chiropractic adjustment session?” The answer depends on your chiropractor’s prerogative and your current physical condition. In general, chiropractors recommend that you wait at least half an hour or more before you do any strenuous exercise. This way, your body has time to adjust and rest before going through a heavy physical activity.
But if you can skip the gym for the day, why not? Do light exercises such as walking or cycling instead.
2. Hydrate your body
The joints in your body rely on water for cushioning. Thus, after a chiropractic adjustment, it is crucial that you keep yourself hydrated so that your joints can move and recover freely. Moreover, having enough water in your body prevents it from losing strength and flexibility, making your chiropractic treatment more effective.
Avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, sodas, and energy drinks. These beverages will cause the body to lose water instead of retaining it, so stick to pure water instead.
3. Do the recommended exercises
After a session, your chiropractor may advise you to do some physical activity, such as stretching or exercising. Follow their advice carefully to help your body recover further while you’re at home. The exercises that your chiropractor will recommend are designed to help strengthen your muscles and decrease pain, so don’t risk derailing your treatment progress by missing out on these exercises.
4. Get enough rest
The best way to let your body heal after a chiropractic adjustment is to get enough rest. Free up your schedule and put off your errands or chores for the next day. Getting a good night’s sleep should be your priority at this time.
5. Be careful
Avoid doing any activities that can potentially injure you, such as lifting something heavy or participating in a sport. If your pain was caused by a particular activity, avoid doing that at least for a few days after your adjustment. Afterwards, you can ask your chiropractor about recommendations on how to modify the said activity to reduce the risk of injury and pain.
6. Avoid other forms of treatment
After undergoing chiropractic adjustment, don’t sign up for other forms of treatment, such as massages, acupuncture, or even traditional healing. Focus on your chiropractic treatments to see if they are effective or not. Besides, adding other treatments on top of your adjustments can put your body in too much strain, which can make your pain even worse.
The last and probably the most important aftercare tip for a chiropractic adjustment is to follow the doctor’s instructions. This way, you can stay on a steady path to recovery while maximizing the benefits of your treatment. If you have any questions about what to do after a chiropractic session, don’t hesitate to ask your chiropractor.