As a chiropractor with over two decades of experience, I’ve encountered numerous patients who have expressed concerns about feeling sore or discomfort following their adjustments. Today, I aim to shed light on why this occurs and how it fits into the broader context of chiropractic care.
Why Post-Adjustment Soreness Happens
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that post-adjustment soreness is often a normal and expected response, particularly for those who are new to chiropractic treatment or have undergone significant spinal realignment. Let’s explore some of the reasons behind this phenomenon:
1. Muscle Tension Release
Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct misaligned vertebrae in the spine, which can result in improved joint mobility and reduced nerve interference. However, these adjustments often involve the manipulation of muscles and soft tissues surrounding the spine. As these tense or restricted muscles are being released during the adjustment process, it’s not uncommon to experience some degree of soreness as they adapt to their new state. Much like the soreness you might feel after a gym workout, this discomfort is a sign that your muscles are working differently and starting to heal and grow.
2. Microscopic Tissue Damage
While chiropractic adjustments are gentle and non-invasive, they can still exert force on the body’s tissues. This may lead to microscopic tears or trauma in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the adjusted area, especially if your problem is chronic and scar tissue is present. Although this may sound alarming, it’s important to understand that this type of tissue damage is minimal and part of the natural healing process. Breaking down adhesions is necessary to restore normal function. Ice the area in the short term to manage discomfort, but remember, in the long run, this process will contribute to improved flexibility and range of motion.
3. Realigning the Spine
Misalignments in the spine can cause tension and stress throughout the musculoskeletal system, leading to discomfort and pain. When these misalignments are corrected through chiropractic adjustments, the body may experience an adjustment period as it adapts to its new alignment. This can manifest as temporary soreness or stiffness, particularly in the areas that were adjusted.
4. Releasing Nerve Impingement
When a misaligned vertebra is returned to its normal position, it improves nerve transmission. This means that the pain you might be experiencing is actually the return of normal nerve flow. You may start to feel the real pain, not the desensitized version you had before. Think of it as your nervous system healing and your body returning to normal function.
5. Individual Sensitivity
Individuals vary in their sensitivity to chiropractic adjustments. Some may experience minimal soreness or discomfort, while others may feel more pronounced effects following an adjustment. Factors influencing this response include the severity of misalignments, the amount of degeneration present, how relaxed you are during the adjustment, if you resist the adjustment, current inflammation, and underlying health conditions.
Managing Post-Adjustment Soreness
Post-adjustment soreness is a common and generally benign aspect of chiropractic treatment. It’s often a sign that the body is responding to the adjustments and undergoing positive changes. This soreness is typically temporary and part of the path to improved spinal health.
However, if soreness persists or becomes severe, it’s essential to communicate with your chiropractor to ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs. You might need more treatment, a different technique, or a better post-adjustment routine. We’re here to help you get the best results from your chiropractic care.