A chiropractic adjustment is a common, non-invasive procedure focused on restoring proper spinal alignment and supporting nervous system function. While many find these adjustments beneficial, some individuals experience sensations described as feeling “sick” afterward. This article explores the typical reasons behind these post-adjustment sensations and offers guidance on managing them effectively.
Understanding the Body’s Response
Chiropractic adjustments involve precise, controlled forces applied to specific joints to improve their motion and function. This process stimulates the nervous system. As the nervous system adapts to these new inputs and improved alignment, individuals might temporarily experience a range of sensations.
Mobilizing tissues and joints during an adjustment can sometimes lead to a temporary release of metabolic waste products. The body processes and eliminates these substances, which can manifest as a mild, temporary “detoxification response” or transient flu-like symptoms. This is generally considered a normal, temporary part of the body’s healing process.
The body’s natural healing mechanisms can also initiate a localized inflammatory response as tissues begin to repair and adapt to their improved alignment. Muscles and connective tissues are also undergoing adaptation, as they are realigned and stretched. This can lead to a feeling of soreness or fatigue as these tissues adjust to their new, more optimal positions and patterns of movement.
Common Post-Adjustment Sensations
Experiencing fatigue or tiredness after an adjustment is a common sensation, as the body expends energy adapting to the changes and initiating healing processes. This fatigue typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours.
Headaches can also occur temporarily, often due to changes in spinal alignment. These headaches are usually mild and resolve quickly. Muscle soreness or aches are frequent due to the manipulation of tissues. This soreness usually peaks within the first 24 hours and diminishes over the next day or two.
Some individuals might experience temporary dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly after neck adjustments. This can happen due to transient changes in blood flow or nervous system input. Nausea or a general “flu-like” feeling can also manifest, often linked to the detoxification response mentioned previously. These symptoms are typically mild.
Alleviating Post-Adjustment Discomfort
Staying well-hydrated is important following a chiropractic adjustment, as drinking plenty of water helps facilitate the flushing of metabolic waste products from the body. Adequate hydration also supports overall cellular function and tissue repair.
Ensuring adequate rest allows the body to dedicate its energy to healing and adapting to the changes initiated by the adjustment. Gentle movement, such as short walks, can promote circulation and prevent stiffness. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 24 hours.
Applying ice to areas of acute soreness or inflammation can help reduce discomfort. Conversely, applying heat can help relax tight muscles and promote blood flow. It is always advisable to discuss the appropriate use of ice or heat with your chiropractor, as recommendations may vary based on your specific condition. Open communication with your chiropractor about any post-adjustment symptoms is always beneficial.
When to Contact Your Chiropractor or Doctor
It is important to contact your chiropractor if any post-adjustment symptoms persist longer than a few days or if they intensify significantly. While temporary discomfort is common, prolonged or worsening symptoms warrant further evaluation.
Severe or unusual symptoms should prompt immediate contact with your chiropractor or doctor. These include severe pain that is not improving, new onset of numbness or tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or extreme dizziness. These specific indicators could suggest a more significant issue.
New or unexplained symptoms that were not present before the adjustment also necessitate a professional consultation. If you are genuinely concerned about any symptom, seeking advice from your chiropractor or a medical doctor is always the most prudent course of action.