Reactions to Chiropractic Adjustments
It is not uncommon to experience some mild discomfort, especially after the first few chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments restore healthy alignment to your spine and your body is adjusting to this new normal. If you’ve had misalignments in your spine for a while then your body may take time to adjust to this healthier alignment. The good news is many reactions to chiropractic adjustments are your body’s natural way of growing and healing.
Here are four things that may happen after your first few chiropractic adjustments that may seem to make you feel worse or strange:
Cold-like Symptoms
You might be surprised to notice a runny nose or cough after your first few chiropractic adjustments if you didn’t know what to expect. However, cold-like symptoms can happen, especially in response to your first few chiropractic adjustments. This is actually your body’s way of releasing built-up toxins in the body. Chiropractic adjustments and treatments promote a healthy immune response and this is your body’s way of flushing out any built-up toxins that try to interfere with your health and functioning.
Fatigue
You may also experience fatigue due to the release of toxins from the body. It is also common to experience tiredness and fatigue after your first few adjustments as your body adjusts to these newer, healthier positions that promote better functioning in the body. When your immune system is activated, your body often appreciates you resting so it can work to flush out toxins and sickness while you sleep.
Sore Muscles
Some people wonder why they have sore or tight muscles after a chiropractic adjustment, but this is actually a very normal response. The muscles that support your spine are used to working for your back in ways that were not as healthy or beneficial. When your spine is properly aligned, your muscles initially may work harder to adjust to this new normal. Your muscles may have weakened over time due to poor posture or misalignment, so it takes time to build up strength so they can provide proper support to your healthily functioning spine.
Irregular Bowel Movements
Another way your body releases toxins is through more frequent bowel movements. You may notice a need for the bathroom more frequently after your first few adjustments as your body is ridding itself of these toxins. Chiropractic adjustments also promote better functioning in the whole body, which includes your digestive system. When your spine is properly aligned and your digestive system is encouraged to function more healthily, this may prompt a release.
What to Do After a Chiropractic Adjustment
Chiropractic adjustments are all about restoring optimal functioning in your body and developing newer, healthier habits. There are a few things you may be mindful of to help support your body after chiropractic adjustments.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is vital to healthy functioning and nourishment in your body, and drinking water after a chiropractic adjustment is no different. Drinking water helps to flush out toxins and also nourishes your spine and muscles.
Rest
It is especially beneficial to take time to rest your body after your first few chiropractic adjustments. This will allow your body’s immune response to take over and begin its healing process. Your muscles will also appreciate rest as they adjust to newer, healthier habits.
Exercise
Exercise is always good for you, and exercising after a chiropractic adjustment is no different. Light, gentle exercises like yoga or going for a walk are great ways to encourage proper blood flow, strengthen muscles, and improve flexibility.
Visit your car accident chiropractor at AICA Orthopedics to learn more about this safe, natural healing approach of chiropractic care. These initial responses from the body may seem strange, but they are natural and healthy responses to effective care and treatment.
