3 Guidelines To Follow For Exercising After Your Chiropractic Adjustment

If you suffer from reoccurring back pain or are plagued by constant headaches, regular chiropractor sessions can help you alleviate these issues. Chiropractic treatment is especially effective when combined with other treatment regimes, such as regular physical activity. However, it is important to follow these guidelines for exercising after your chiropractic appointments.

1. Save Heavy Workouts for Days That You Don't Have an Appointment with Your Chiropractor

After a session with your chiropractor, it is common to experience pain or soreness in the adjusted areas, especially if you are new to chiropractic care or if it has been a while since your last session. Since you are already experiencing a certain amount of discomfort, you may want to save heavy or intense exercise sessions for days that you don't visit the chiropractor. Heavy weight lifting, contact sports, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are a few activities you should consider avoiding.

Walking, yoga, light calisthenics, and swimming are generally okay even on the same day as your appointment. Make sure to listen to your body; if you experience significant discomfort, revise the movement or dial back your workout. 

2. Watch Your Form

Exercise has numerous benefits, but it is important to check your form to prevent further injury to your back. If you have questions regarding the proper form for a specific activity or move, you may find it beneficial to work with a trainer or instructor.

For example, if you like to spin or cycle, you should take care to avoid rounding your spine. Not only will rounding your spine hurt your back, but it can leave your entire body feeling tense. Instead, work on keeping your back straight and upright. 

Lifting weights is another activity where it it is essential to use the correct form. When completing exercise likes squats or deadlifts, check that you keep your back neutral. Don't round the muscles or overarch them.

3. Avoid Workouts That Exasperate Your Back Problems

Some workouts simply aren't a good fit for individuals with chronic back problems. Help your back heal with your chiropractor appointments by avoiding workouts that cause your back pain to flare up.

High-impact exercises, such as running and plyometrics, tend to exacerbate existing back pain thanks to the repetitive motions. Certain stretches, such as those that involve twisting or rounding the spine, may not be advisable either due to the stress that they put on your back. Sit-ups and crunches also strain the back; try swapping them for planks and plank variations for a killer abdominal workout.

For more information, reach out to a company like Fick Chiropractic Centers Inc. 

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