A chiropractic adjustment, often called spinal manipulation, is a procedure where a trained specialist uses their hands or a small instrument to apply a controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint. The objective is to restore proper movement and function to a joint that may have become restricted or misaligned. This technique is central to chiropractic care, aiming to improve mobility and overall physical function. Many people wonder if they will feel “sick” after a treatment session, though this usually refers to mild, transient symptoms. This article explores the nature of these temporary post-treatment feelings and their underlying biological reasons.
Common Temporary Reactions Following Adjustment
The most frequently reported reaction after a spinal adjustment is mild, localized muscle soreness, often compared to the sensation experienced after an initial workout. This tenderness occurs in the treated areas and surrounding soft tissues as they adapt to a new, corrected alignment. Fatigue or drowsiness is also a common experience, affecting a small percentage of patients.
This tiredness can set in several hours after the procedure and reflects the body’s response to the release of built-up physical tension. Some individuals also report a mild, transient headache, particularly following adjustments to the cervical (neck) spine. These symptoms, including slight dizziness immediately post-treatment, are typically mild to moderate and resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
The Science Behind Post-Adjustment Fatigue and Soreness
The mild soreness and fatigue experienced are rooted in the physiological changes that occur when the body is realigned and tension is released. When a restricted joint is mobilized, the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons must adapt to their new functional position. This adaptation requires the muscular system to “relearn” its job, which can lead to temporary tenderness similar to muscle strain from exercise.
The focused manipulation can cause a transient inflammatory response in the treated soft tissues, contributing to soreness. The release of chronic tension also flushes metabolic waste products that have accumulated in stiff muscle tissue. This elimination process temporarily demands energy from the body, which can manifest as post-adjustment fatigue.
The nervous system plays a significant role by processing new sensory information and changes in proprioception. An adjustment can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body’s “rest and digest” functions. This shift from a stressed state to a relaxed, restorative state can induce a sense of calmness and sleepiness. The body expends energy to recalibrate neural signals and muscle patterns to maintain the corrected alignment, leading to temporary exhaustion.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild discomfort is normal, patients must distinguish these common reactions from the rare but serious complications that require immediate medical consultation. Any severe or rapidly worsening pain that fails to improve after 24 to 48 hours should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. New or worsening neurological symptoms are considered red flags that demand urgent attention.
These signs include sudden numbness, tingling, or weakness in an arm or leg, which may suggest nerve irritation or damage. Signs of a stroke, though extremely rare, include difficulty speaking, facial drooping, or significant arm weakness. A sudden, severe “thunderclap” headache necessitates emergency medical care. Loss of bowel or bladder control following an adjustment is a medical emergency indicating a severe neurological issue.
Steps to Reduce Post-Adjustment Discomfort
Patients can take several proactive steps to minimize the common, mild discomfort experienced after an adjustment. Remaining well-hydrated is crucial, as drinking plenty of water helps the body flush out metabolic byproducts released from soft tissues during the manipulation. It is advised to increase water intake for 24 hours following the session to support natural healing processes.
Gentle movement, such as a short walk, can help reinforce the adjustments and prevent stiffness without overstressing the mobilized joints. Patients should avoid intense exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that strain the spine for at least 24 to 48 hours. For localized soreness, applying ice for 15 to 20 minutes can reduce inflammation, while heat therapy promotes muscle relaxation.