Before or After?

09 Oct Before or After?

A common question I get asked by people getting an adjustment is whether they can do certain things in the hours or day after an adjustment.

For example commonly I have been asked whether it is ok to go to the gym after an adjustment, or is it OK to have a massage after an adjustment, or is it OK to play sport after an adjustment.

My perspective is as follows:

• Chiropractic adjustments are not moving bones from position “A” to position “B”. Chiropractic adjustments allow proper movement in the spine joints and therefore benefits to the surrounding structures including nerves, discs, muscles and ligaments.

• Chiropractic impact on the nerve system is designed to allow better neurological function and thus the potential to positively benefit other areas of your body

• Chiropractic adjustment techniques vary hugely but techniques if practiced by a skilled practitioner never impart excessive physical force.

So there is no need to worry that after an adjustment we need to modify our activity levels. Naturally if you are experiencing a period of severe pain or a flare up of a health issue then your chiropractor will advise you at the time as to whether there are certain activities that you should either incorporate or stop to assist in your return to wellbeing.

In the world of professional sports there are many very well known athletes that choose to regularly use chiropractic care as part of their performance plan. There are 2 distinct ways of viewing the athletes approach.

• Some of these athletes would have a mindset that their chiropractic adjustments help to rectify any issues that arise from their competition or training.-This is what I would term “Therapeutic Approach” meaning the mindset is about trying to “fix” an issue that arose through competition.

• Another proportion of athletes would choose to get a check up and adjustment prior to competing regardless of how they feel. This approach which I will term “Vitalistic Approach” takes into account that there are wholistic implications from having a well functioning spine and nervous system and therefore it is logical to fine tune ourselves prior to attempting to perform at our 100% best.

So for the non elite athlete. That is for the general person who still aspires to live at their best. To be the best employee they can be, the best parent they can be, the best spouse they can be, the best family member they can be chiropractic care plays a role in that.

There will always be occasions where people feel they want an adjustment after doing something that makes them aware of some symptoms but for the masses of people who enjoy a regular scheduled chiropractic check up – Go with confidence that after your adjustment you are well equipped to do whatever you want.