Chiropractic Aftercare 101: What to Do Between Sessions
Spinal manipulation works most effectively as part of a complete self-care picture. A significant 2026 JAMA study found that pairing spinal manipulation with clinician-supported self-management education led to substantially better results for acute back pain than manipulation alone, confirming that what patients do between visits counts just as much as what happens during treatment. (1) At Johnson Chiropractic in Richmond, we want every patient to feel confident about caring for their spine before, between, and after each session.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Arrive hydrated. Spinal discs need fluid to stay pliable, and research on the annulus fibrosus shows that hydration time directly influences how the disc swells and responds to tension. (2) Drinking water steadily all day, not just right before your visit, gives your tissues a stronger foundation for care. Light movement beforehand, such as a short walk, can also help relax tight muscles so your body responds more readily to care.
BETWEEN SESSIONS
Most patients underestimate how much rest matters. A study of 101 healthy volunteers reported that cervical and thoracic disc hydration actually increases with recumbency, meaning lying down allows the spine to rehydrate and recover. (3) Prioritizing a complete 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 outlines; the PACBACK trial's biopsychosocial self-management approach specifically paired education with graded activity, not inactivity alone. (1)
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Stay gently active rather than sitting still for long stretches. Follow any stretching or strengthening routine your provider recommends, since consistent, directed exercise was a central part of the superior outcomes seen in recent research. Keep drinking water and avoid heavy lifting or high-impact activity for the rest of the day so your spine can settle into its improved alignment.
CONTACT Johnson Chiropractic
Self-care between visits is essential, not optional. It is a complete part of how spinal manipulation delivers lasting pain relief.
Tune into this PODCAST with Dr. Dr. Nikolaos Kalogeropoulos on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he explains the importance of self-care and chiropractic treatment with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management in managing disc issues like an extruded disc.
Make your Richmond chiropractic visit today.
Your spine will thank you.
