Chiropractic Aftercare 101: What to Do Between Sessions
Spinal manipulation works most successfully as part of a fuller self-care picture. A notable 2026 JAMA trial found that combining spinal manipulation with clinician-supported self-management education led to considerably better results for acute back pain than manipulation alone, confirming that what patients do between visits makes a difference every bit as much as what happens during treatment. (1) At Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic in Augusta, we want every patient to feel prepared about looking after their spine before, between, and after each visit.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Arrive well-hydrated. Spinal discs need fluid to stay supple, and research on the annulus fibrosus shows that hydration time directly affects how the disc swells and responds to tension. (2) Drinking water steadily all day, not just right before your visit, gives your tissues a more reliable foundation for healing. Light movement before your visit, such as a short stroll, can also help relax tight muscles so your body adapts more easily to treatment.
BETWEEN SESSIONS
Rest matters more than most patients realize. A study of 101 healthy volunteers found that cervical and thoracic disc hydration in fact increases with recumbency, meaning simply lying down allows the spine to recover and rehydrate. (3) Prioritizing a good night's sleep and quick rest breaks during a demanding day supports the work your spine is doing to heal. Pair this with any exercises your provider recommends; the PACBACK trial's biopsychosocial self-management approach purposefully paired education with progressive activity, not passive rest alone. (1)
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Continue light movement rather than sitting still for long periods. Follow any stretching or strengthening routine your provider recommends, since steady, directed exercise was a core part of the better outcomes seen in recent research. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy lifting or high-impact activity for the remainder of the day so your spine can settle into its improved alignment.
CONTACT Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic
Self-care between visits is essential, not optional. It is a bigger part of how spinal manipulation offers lasting relief.
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Dr. Nikolaos Kalogeropoulos on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he explains the significance of self-care and chiropractic treatment with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management in managing disc problems like an extruded disc.
Book your Augusta chiropractic appointment soon.
You will feel the difference.
