How can you maximize the benefits of your chiropractic care and make it as cost-effective as possible? That is what we are going to look at in this blog post.
There are many differing opinions on how frequently someone should be adjusted, how many visits it will take, and what that care should cost. Regardless of those variables, there are things you as the patient can do to MINIMIZE your need for care and MAXIMIZE the benefits of the adjustments and therapies you receive while in the office.
Let’s begin by explaining what to do after a chiropractic adjustment. The first thing is using ice/heat as recommended by your doctor. That is a whole new blog post we will do soon to go over when to use ice verse using heat, for how long to apply them, and in what areas. For now, if you are adjusted and instructed to go home and apply ice or heat, following those instructions is vital in your recovery process. You would be surprised how many patients fail to follow these instructions and how beneficial it is for those that do follow them.
Secondly, ask for any stretches or exercises that you can do at home that can help with your recovery or overall wellness. I love when patients ask this question because it shows me they are proactive in their health and will most likely actually go do those stretches or exercises. A simple stretch routine like daily knee-to-chest stretches or wall angels can go a long way in helping your spinal health. Be sure to ask and you can have them to take home as printouts or emailed to you, often with videos to refer to for proper technique.
Lastly, follow the doctor’s recommendations on when to return for care! There are no magic pills or potions, nor is there one single adjustment that is going to magically make years of spinal problems go away after one visit. It will likely take time and some repetition to get your spine and joints back where they need to be to allow your body to heal the way it is supposed to. Sticking to your chiropractor’s recommended treatment plan is the fastest way for you to get better and avoid long term issues that could potentially cost far more time, money, and stress in the future.
By following these 3 steps of what to do after a chiropractic adjustment, you will get better faster, need less care over your lifetime, and save yourself a lot of time and money in your health journey! It is time to take control of our own health and be proactive! Give us a call at 336-768-1004 to schedule your next appointment!