What happens after Chiropractic?

A common myth about back pain is that you need to rest and avoid activity for a long time. In fact, bed rest is NOT recommended. If you have no sign of a serious cause for your back pain (such as loss of bowel or bladder control, weakness, weight loss, or fever), you should stay as active as possible.

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Here are some tips for how to handle back pain and activity early on:

  • Stop normal physical activity only for the first few days. This helps calm your symptoms and reduce any swelling (inflammation) in the area of the pain.
  • Apply ice to the painful area. One good method is to use ice for the first 48 – 72 hours, then use heat after that. Be careful as prolonged heat can increase inflammation.
  • Sleep in a curled-up, fetal position with a pillow between your legs. If you usually sleep on your back, place a pillow or rolled towel under your knees to relieve pressure on the back.
  • Do NOT perform activities that involve heavy lifting or twisting of your back for the first 6 weeks after the pain begins.
  • Avoid exercise right after the pain begins. After 2 – 3 weeks, however, slowly begin to exercise again (get advice from your chiropractor or physical therapist).