Why Do I Get a Headache After a Chiropractic Adjustment?

Chiropractic care aims to support spinal health and overall wellness through non-invasive, manual adjustments of the spine. These adjustments are designed to support nerve function and alleviate discomfort by addressing any spinal misalignments. 

However, while many experience relief and improved mobility post-treatment, it is not uncommon for some individuals to report transient headaches following an adjustment. But why are headaches a temporary response to spinal manipulations?

Understanding Chiropractic Adjustments

But first, what exactly are chiropractic adjustments?

These adjustments are core components of chiropractic care, specifically designed to address spinal misalignments so as to support proper alignment. This can then help enhance nervous system function and support the body’s natural capacities to manage discomfort and heal itself.

And although pain relief is a common reason people seek chiropractic care, its advantages go beyond that. Adjustments can also contribute to:

• Enhanced nervous system functionality
• Improved flexibility and range of motion
• Support for better digestion
• General enhancement of physical function and well-being

However, it’s important to recognise that chiropractic adjustments are not a panacea for all health issues. Instead, they serve as a complementary tool to other health management strategies in managing musculoskeletal health and improving quality of life. 

Possible Causes of Headaches After Chiropractic Adjustments

Now, back to the question of whether it is normal to get a headache after seeing a chiropractor.

While chiropractic care is centred on supporting spinal health and enhancing overall well-being, some individuals may experience headaches following an adjustment.

Here are some reasons why this might occur:

• Muscle Tension Release: Chiropractic adjustments often target areas of the body where muscle tension has accumulated. When these tensions are released suddenly during an adjustment, it can lead to temporary headaches as the body adjusts to the changes.
• Dehydration: Remaining hydrated is crucial, particularly post-adjustment. Dehydration can intensify muscle tension and potentially trigger headaches. It is thus essential to drink ample fluids before and after your chiropractic sessions to support the body’s adjustment process.
• Reactions to Changes: The body might initially react to the realignment of the spine with temporary headaches. This reaction is part of the adaptation process as the body adjusts to its new alignment and the reduction of nerve irritation.
• Stress Relief: Adjustments can also alleviate accumulated stress in the body. As the body unwinds from stress, it’s common to experience headaches as a part of the body’s natural response to releasing tension.
• Increased Blood Flow: Adjustments, especially in the neck region, can increase blood flow to the head and neck. For some individuals, this enhanced circulation might result in temporary headaches.
• Temporary Discomfort: It’s normal to experience some discomfort, including headaches, after an adjustment. This temporary discomfort is a sign of the body adapting and realigning, which is generally short-lived and resolves as the body settles into its new alignment.

Other Possible Temporary Symptoms

But it’s not just headaches that you might experience after a chiropractic adjustment. There are other temporary symptoms that can occur as your body adjusts to the changes made during the session:

• Soreness/Discomfort: It’s common to feel soreness in the areas that were adjusted, especially if there was pre-existing muscle tightness or spasms. This discomfort is typically mild and diminishes as your body adapts to its new alignment.
• Fatigue: Adjustments can be physically taxing as they are a form of physical therapy. Feeling tired or fatigued after an adjustment is thus a normal response from your body. It’s a sign that your body is processing the changes and beginning the healing process.
• Dizziness/Lightheadedness: Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur immediately following an adjustment, particularly those that involve the neck. This is usually brief and subsides as your body stabilizes.
• Nausea: Though less common, some individuals may experience nausea after an adjustment. This reaction can be part of the body’s response to the physical shifts and nerve stimulation.
• Changes in Bowel/Bladder Function: Although rare, temporary alterations in your bowel or bladder function may occur. This can be related to the body’s release of toxins accumulated in the tissues, prompting a detox effect as part of the adjustment aftermath.

Typically, these symptoms are mild and short-lived and tend to indicate that your body is responding to the adjustments and starting its natural process of healing and realignment.

But what if the symptoms persist or cause significant discomfort?

When is a Headache a Serious Problem?

It is relatively rare to experience headaches following a chiropractic adjustment, and most patients do not face significant discomfort after their sessions. However, understanding when a headache could signify a more serious issue is crucial for ensuring safety and proper care.

• Persistent or Severe Headaches: If headaches persist or become severe following an adjustment, it is crucial to inform your chiropractor. Adjustments are tailored to individual needs, and your chiropractor can modify the approach to reduce discomfort and address specific issues as they arise.
• Red Flags: Immediate medical attention is warranted if headaches are accompanied by alarming symptoms such as fever, confusion, or neurological signs like numbness or weakness. Such symptoms could indicate serious conditions that require urgent care.

Skilled chiropractors are trained to manage adjustments carefully, work to minimise any side effects and are prepared to adapt treatment strategies based on patient feedback and symptoms.

Therefore, if you are experiencing headaches that are out of the ordinary or if you notice other severe symptoms, contacting a healthcare provider or returning to your chiropractor for further assessment is advised. It’s better to err on the side of caution to ensure that your health is monitored and managed appropriately.

How to Treat Headaches After a Chiropractic Adjustment

If you do, however, find yourself dealing with a migraine or headache for days after chiropractic adjustment, managing it involves a combination of simple self-care measures:

• Hydration: Ensuring you drink plenty of water is crucial. Staying hydrated helps mitigate the mild headaches that may follow an adjustment by supporting overall bodily functions and easing muscle tightness.
• Rest: Allowing your body adequate rest after an adjustment gives it time to adapt to the changes. Rest can be particularly beneficial in alleviating any discomfort, including headaches.
• Gentle Stretches: Engaging in gentle stretches can relieve muscle tension that might contribute to headaches. Simple neck and shoulder stretches can be especially helpful in relaxing the areas typically affected during chiropractic adjustments.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: For those who experience persistent headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used cautiously. It’s important to use these sparingly and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Communication with Your Chiropractor: Keeping an open line of communication with your chiropractor is key. Discuss any post-adjustment symptoms you experience so they can adjust their approach accordingly and provide specific guidance to help manage any discomfort.

Minimising Headaches and Maximising Benefits at Chiro Time

At Chiro Time, our experienced chiropractors for headaches are dedicated to providing safe and effective adjustments tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We understand that while chiropractic care primarily aims to support spinal health and overall well-being, it is crucial to ensure that each session contributes positively without significant discomfort.

• Experienced Chiropractors: Our team is skilled in various chiropractic techniques that not only help manage discomfort but also support your overall physical function. This expertise helps us ensure that the adjustments are not only effective but also comfortable for all our patients.
• Personalised Care: Every patient at Chiro Time receives a customised plan. These plans are designed based on an individual’s specific health needs and goals, which help minimise any potential discomfort like headaches and maximise the benefits of chiropractic adjustments.
• Patient-Centred Approach: We prioritise your comfort and well-being above all. Understanding that some patients may experience temporary symptoms such as headaches, we focus on gentle, patient-centred care that encourages recovery and supports long-term health.

If you’re experiencing headaches or any discomfort following a chiropractic session, or if you’re simply looking for effective management for back pain through chiropractic care, our doors are always open. We encourage open communication with our chiropractors, ensuring any concerns are promptly addressed and that your sessions continue to align with your objectives.