In brief: what does a chiropractor do?
Before we go into the possible side effects of chiropractic, it is important to first have a clear idea of exactly what a chiropractor does.
Chiropractic is a form of holistic healthcare that focuses on removing blockages in the spine. Removing these blockages allows the central nervous system to function better. The role of a chiropractor is to check the spine for areas where a nerve is pinched and where there may be blockages. These blockages are subluxations mentioned. If a subluxation is found, the chiropractor will make specific adjustments (called the 'chiropractic adjustments') on the spine. As blockages in the spine are removed, the connection between the brain and the body is restored and your body can function at a higher level again. Thus (pain) symptoms can be relieved.
Want to know more about what exactly a chiropractor does? Then read our comprehensive blog!
Side effects of chiropractic care
Like most treatment methods, chiropractic can have side effects, but these are generally mild and transient. It is important to note that these side effects do not occur in everyone: everyone is unique, and every body reacts differently. Below, we will elaborate on some possible side effects after treatment at the chiropractor:
Fatigue: After a chiropractic adjustment (chiropractic treatment), a feeling of fatigue may occur. This is because the nervous system is stimulated and activated, which requires energy from your body. Rest and adequate hydration can help reduce fatigue after your treatment. The good news is: most people sleep very well and deeply after the first treatments 🙂
Muscle pain: Because chiropractic adjustments stimulate the muscles, this can lead to muscle pain. This muscle pain can lead from mild to intense, similar to what one experiences after exercising.
Slight headache: Changes in the (position of the) spine, head and neck can sometimes lead to a mild headache. These headaches are transient. Again, it is advisable to keep drinking plenty of water, take rest and try to avoid stimuli such as from a mobile phone.
Temporary worsening of symptoms: Some patients initially experience a worsening of their symptoms after a chiropractic adjustment. This is called the 'recovery response' and is considered a normal reaction to the recovery process. It is caused by your body 'loosening up' in places that have been stuck for a long time (even years in some cases). So there is renewed movement in these places after being stuck for a very long time, which can cause discomfort. It is important not to get discouraged when this recovery reaction occurs. Your body needs time to recover, and while it may feel counterintuitive that your symptoms worsen at first, it is important to persevere precisely at that point. This allows your body to get moving, and from then on, the symptoms may start to improve.
Preventing chiropractic side effects
Some people find it exciting to go to a chiropractor. However, the treatment is very safe and has only a minimal chance of additional risks. However, it is very important that you go to a qualified and registered chiropractor. If you live in the Netherlands, make sure your chiropractor is affiliated with the professional association DCF (Dutch Chiropractic Federation). This will ensure that you receive safe care by an experienced professional. Moreover, this is also a requirement to get your treatment to be reimbursed by health insurance.
Besides choosing a registered chiropractor, it is always very important to be open about your health history. A good chiropractor will carry out a thorough assessment based on the patient's medical history before the first treatment in order to minimise possible risks and side effects. So do not leave out any information, even if you might be embarrassed or unsure whether the information is relevant or not. Remember, an open dialogue between you and your healthcare provider is the key to successful treatment!
Does chiropractic have side effects?
