If you’ve recently been to a chiropractor and received a chiropractic adjustment, you may be wondering if it is safe to exercise afterward. The answer is yes, but you should understand some basic guidelines to avoid injuring yourself or causing further problems. Here are some tips for safely participating in physical activity after getting a chiropractic adjustment.
Exercises To Consider After a Chiropractic Adjustment
Please consider and choose the right exercises to maximize your benefits and avoid potential unnecessary harm after an adjustment. The following are several exercises that are beneficial after a chiropractic adjustment include:
Stretching
Good stretching can help restore movement and flexibility in areas you’ve experienced chronic pain or injury. It also helps promote proper posture and reduces tension in your muscles. Stretch in all areas that were worked on during your chiropractor’s adjustment for optimal results.
Strength Training
Low-impact strength training exercises such as bodyweight exercises, resistance band exercises, and light weightlifting with low reps and low weight are just some of plenty of safe options for most people after a chiropractic adjustment. These exercises can help improve muscle strength, endurance, and stability without putting unnecessary stress on the joints.
Yoga & Pilates
Yoga and Pilates are low-impact forms of exercise that place minimal stress on the joints and muscles. This makes them a safe option for recovering from an injury or chiropractic adjustment. Both practices focus on stretching and strengthening the muscles, which improves flexibility and range of motion throughout the entire body. Yoga and Pilates can also help reinforce proper alignment of the body to prevent future injuries and improve overall musculoskeletal function.
Exercises To Avoid After a Chiropractic Adjustment
High-impact Cardio
High-impact cardio exercises include activities such as running, jumping rope, stair climbing, and other activities that can put intense, unnecessary pressure on your muscles, joints, and bones. While these activities are great for overall lifetime fitness and health maintenance, you should avoid them for some time after a chiropractic session. High-impact activities can cause stress and strain on the joints and muscles, which can do more harm than good, like undoing the adjustments of your chiropractor.
Contact Sports
Participating in any sports activity involving body contact with another player, such as football or basketball, should be avoided after receiving an adjustment. Additional strain or impact may as well undo the work achieved during your appointment. This also applies to activities such as dancing or skating if body contact is involved.
Repetitive Motions
Repetitive motions such as bending, squatting, kneading, or throwing can be the cause of musculoskeletal injuries. They can stress the joints, muscles, and tendons, slowing the healing process and increasing the risk of further injury. Repetitive motions can also lead to muscle imbalances. This can cause the body to compensate for the affected area and create larger postural imbalances. These imbalances can lead to pain and discomfort in other areas of the body. They can also decrease the overall function and mobility of the body.
Listen to Your Body
Immediately after an adjustment, you may feel a feeling of relief and improved mobility. This is because the adjustment has helped to release any of the tension or pressure causing discomfort in your body. The adjustment causes a temporary shift in the body’s structure, and your muscles and ligaments may need time to adjust to this new alignment before they’re ready for an intense workout.
No matter what type of exercise you choose, always take it easy and listen carefully to your body before pushing yourself too hard. Take at least one rest day for every two days spent doing physical activities, and drink plenty of water during your workouts. Staying rested and hydrated can help reduce any potential muscle cramps or fatigue that may occur due to overexertion during post-adjustment physical activity. If an exercise causes pain or something doesn’t feel right, stop the exercise immediately and consult your chiropractor.
Consult With Your Chiropractor
Keeping a habit of exercising can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and support the benefits of chiropractic adjustments. Consult with your trusted chiropractor before starting any new exercise routines. As professionals, they can provide specific recommendations and adjustments to make your exercise routine safe and beneficial for your body.
