One of the main reasons that patients request a visit to a chiropractor in OKC and all over the country is lower back pain. The process of effectively recovering after chiropractic treatment is not only the number of visits but what goes on in between the visits is equally important. This article includes relevant practical recovery guidelines that enhance the outcome of chiropractic treatment of lower back pain okc and assist the patients in achieving permanent results in a shorter period of time.
Support chiropractic treatment outcomes for lower back pain
What to do immediately after a chiropractic adjustment
The post chiropractic adjustment period is a good time in the life of the body to get used to the realignment. There are behaviors that are able to sustain the good changes done in the treatment or to disrupt them. These are some of the recovery measures to follow the chiropractic adjustment of lower back pain:
- Drink plenty of water: Being adequately hydrated aids in clearing toxins that are discharged during spinal manipulation and in muscle tissue repair.
- Avoid strenuous activity: It is advisable to stop having heavy load and high intensity work, and the rest of the day after the adjustment to the spine.
- Walk gently: Light walking promotes blood circulation and the body to assimilate the adjustment without causing stress to the spine.
- Avoid sitting for long periods: Long periods sitting immediately after an adjustment can undo most of the improvements that have been achieved during the session.
Posture habits that support lower back recovery
One of the most common causes of repeated lower back pain amongst the patients in OKC is poor posture. Good posture between chiropractic sessions helps to keep the spine in position and adds to the effects of individual treatments. Posture that helps in the recovery of lower back pain involves:
- Sit with lumbar support: Sit in a chair with good lower back support or lumbar cushion maintains the spine in a neutral position during excessive sitting.
- Avoid slouching at screens: Maintaining level eye contact with the screen and relaxed shoulders prevents the position of bent head and curved shoulders that puts the lower back on the strains of overstretching.
- Stand with weight distributed evenly: When standing, spread the weight evenly between both feet, not having any side of the lower back and pelvis overloaded with weight.
- Use proper lifting technique: Knee-bend and not waist bend when picking-up objects that will support the lumbar discs against compressive forces.
Stretching and movement between sessions
Regular motion and specific stretching in between the chiropractic visits help in supporting the muscles which surround the lower back. Maintaining the supporting muscles will make the work done whenever making an adjustment stronger. The following are stretches and movements that help in reducing lower back pain:
- Knee-to-chest stretch: When lying on the back, it is advisable to bring the knee towards the chest which eases the tension in the lower lumbar muscles and hip flexors.
- Cat-cow movement: Slows movement between rounded and arched back position on all fours mobilises the lumbar spinal cord and relieves morning stiffness.
- Walking daily: Everyday low-impact walking keeps the joints in the spine mobile, and keeps the disc and surrounding soft tissues circulating.
A look at the frequently asked questions
Is soreness following a chiropractic adjustment usual?
Yes. Mild pains that may take one-two days are typical and may go away on their own.
Is stretching bad for lower back pain?
It is always advisable to abide by stretches prescribed by the treating chiropractor so as not to make the injury worse.
Is exercising contraindicated with chiropractic care?
When performing high impact/ heavy exercise during active treatment, one should just talk it over with the chiropractor before doing it.
