Experiencing some discomfort or soreness after a chiropractic adjustment is not uncommon and can be considered normal in certain cases. It is known as post-adjustment soreness and typically occurs due to the manipulation and realignment of the spine as well as manually effecting surrounding tissues. However, it is important to differentiate between normal soreness and a condition that may need further evaluation.

Post- adjustment soreness

 In many instances, post-adjustment soreness resolves on its own within a day or two as your body adapts to the changes made during the adjustment. It may feel similar to muscle soreness after exercising or engaging in physical activity that your body is not accustomed to. That is essentially what is happening, With chiropractic adjustments your body is encouraged to move how it biomechanically should be able to, thus placing new demand on the body that it isn't used to. Applying ice or heat as well as doing simple stretches and activities (such as foam rolling or walking) can help alleviate the discomfort as well as improve recovery time.

Good pain and bad pain
However, it is important to know the difference between good and bad pain. General soreness that is compared to feeling like you just worked out, is normal and to be expected after your first visit. This is actually a good sign that a positive change was made to the body and is simply your body adapting to the increase in movement. 

Pain that is prolonged, or any numbness or tingling that occurs are concerning and not considered good pain. Patients who commonly experience headaches can get what is called a rebound headache following their first chiropractic treatment. A rebound headache occurs when the tissues surrounding the upper cervical vertebrae compensate after being worked on, and actually tighten up more than they were before, resulting in a headache. These rebound headaches are rare and often resolve after the second treatment.

 It is crucial to consult with your chiropractor or a healthcare professional if you experience these symptoms. Your chiropractor or health care professional will then evaluate your condition and determine whether further examination or treatment is necessary.

Every healthcare professionals goal is to get their patients better as quick as possible and to have an enjoyable treatment, but adverse responses can happen, so it is important to remember that every individual's response to chiropractic care may vary. We at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic constantly express the importance of doctor- patient communication, we always want our patients to feel heard and understood with each of their concerns or ailments.

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go online to gallatinvalleychiropractic.com