Chiropractic Aftercare 101: What to Do Between Sessions
Spinal manipulation works most successfully as part of a broader self-care picture. A landmark 2026 JAMA study found that pairing spinal manipulation with clinician-supported self-management education led to measurably better outcomes for acute back pain than manipulation alone, underscoring that what patients do between visits makes a difference just as much as what happens on the table. (1) At Hollstrom & Associates Inc in Largo, we want every patient to feel empowered about taking care of their spine before, between, and after each session.
BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Arrive hydrated. Spinal discs rely on fluid to stay supple, and research on the annulus fibrosus demonstrates that hydration time directly impacts 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 resilient 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
Most patients underestimate how much rest matters. A study of 101 healthy volunteers reported 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 short rest breaks during a busy day helps your spine complete its healing process. Pair this with any exercises your provider prescribes; the PACBACK trial's biopsychosocial self-management approach specifically paired education with structured activity, not passive rest alone. (1)
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Continue light movement rather than remaining still for long stretches. Follow any mobility or strengthening routine your provider prescribes, since regular, directed exercise was a core part of the superior outcomes seen in recent studies. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous lifting or high-impact activity for the remainder of the day so your spine can adjust to its improved alignment.
CONTACT Hollstrom & Associates Inc
Self-care between visits is not an afterthought. It is a bigger part of how spinal manipulation delivers long-term symptom relief.
Check out this PODCAST with Dr. Dr. Nikolaos Kalogeropoulos on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the importance of self-care and chiropractic treatment with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management in taking care of disc problems like an extruded disc.
Book your Largo chiropractic visit before life gets too busy.
Your spine will thank you.
