Here at House of Chiropractic, some of the most common questions I get are “Why do I have to keep going back to the chiropractor?” and “How long do chiropractic adjustments last?”
This second question is a bit difficult to answer, however, because everyone’s body is unique. Things like the state of your muscles, ligaments, joints, and even how hydrated you are can affect how often you need to return for chiropractic treatment.
We’re all different, and each of us brings our own set of physical traumas, injuries, and changes to the (chiropractic) table. So, why isn’t it just a quick fix? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind chiropractic adjustments and what affects how long they last.
What Happens During a Chiropractic Adjustment?
When you go in for an adjustment, your chiropractor uses specific spinal manipulations to move your joints back into place. This helps relieve pressure on your nerves, which can make a big difference in how you feel.
But here’s the thing: while adjustments can free up those nerves, they can also put a bit of strain on your muscles and soft tissues. After all, your body has gotten used to being in that misaligned position for a while.
Because of this, your muscles and ligaments might try to pull those joints back out of place again. This is your muscle memory kicking in! This can be especially true if you keep falling back into the same old habits, like slouching at your desk or sleeping on a bad mattress.
So, while chiropractic adjustments are super important for keeping your nervous system happy and your body functioning well, it’s also crucial to make some lifestyle changes to support your adjustments. By being mindful of your habits and teaming up with your chiropractor, you can help those adjustments last longer and really boost your overall well-being.
How Long Do Chiropractic Adjustments Last?
Time and repetition are key when it comes to making lasting changes in your body.
Think about it like this: one healthy salad isn’t going to change your cholesterol levels overnight. But stick to a healthy diet for a couple of months, and you might just see some magic happen. The same goes for physical fitness and chiropractic adjustments as well.
One of the cool things about chiropractic care is that, over time, you may find that you need fewer adjustments. When you start, you might be coming in 2-3 times a week, but as your body begins to adapt and heal, you could end up only needing to visit once a month for maintenance.
Of course, how long your adjustments last really depends on a few factors: the type of injury you’re dealing with, your unique body, and how well you take care of yourself at home.
The important takeaway is to stay consistent with your treatment plan. By doing so, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success and making those adjustments work for you.
How To Make Chiropractic Care Work Better
Want to make your chiropractic adjustments last longer? There are definitely some things you can do to help!
Here are a few tips to enhance your chiropractic care and support your journey to better health:
- Incorporate Stretching into Your Daily Routine: Stretching regularly can improve your range of motion and keep those muscles flexible (so “muscle memory” doesn’t pull your joints out of place again). Try to include some gentle stretches throughout your day, especially after sitting for long periods.
- Improve Your Posture: Whether you’re sitting at a desk or standing, good posture makes a world of difference. Being mindful of your posture can reduce strain on your spine and help your adjustments hold longer.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial. It helps plump up the discs between your vertebrae, keeping them healthy and hydrated. Good hydration supports overall spinal health and function.
- Enhance Your Sleep Hygiene: Quality sleep is vital for recovery. Make sure your sleep environment is comfortable, and establish a consistent bedtime routine to promote better rest.
- Stick to Your Treatment Plan: It can be tempting to skip appointments when you start feeling better, but following your treatment plan is essential for long-term success. Regular maintenance visits help ensure that you stay feeling great and continue on your healing journey.
By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you’ll not only make the most of your chiropractic care but also set yourself up for long-term health benefits.
Conclusion
It’s important to keep in mind that, regardless of how healthy and well-aligned you feel, chiropractic care is a lifelong practice. No adjustment lasts forever, and maintaining your body’s health is always essential.
In short, the success of your chiropractic adjustments depends on how well you commit to regular visits. By adding in consistent exercise, a clean diet, and quality sleep, you’ll be well on your way to improved health and adjustments that hold longer.
Remember, your journey to pain relief and overall wellness is a continuous one, and with the right habits and support, you can enjoy lasting benefits from your chiropractic care.
