Why Chiropractic Adjustments Don’t Hold (And What You Can Do About It)

Ever wonder why you feel great after a chiropractic adjustment, only for the discomfort to creep back in after a few days or weeks? You’re not alone! Many patients experience the same thing, which leads to frustration and confusion. The truth is, it’s not just about getting adjusted—it’s about understanding why adjustments might not "hold" and what you can do to make them last. Let's dive in.

1. Your Body’s Structure Needs Time to Adapt

Our bodies are creatures of habit. When your spine has been out of alignment for an extended period, your muscles, ligaments, and joints adapt to that incorrect position. When we correct that alignment, those structures need time to relearn the proper position. This adaptation period can take time, which is why multiple adjustments are often necessary. Think of it like braces for your teeth—one appointment isn’t enough for a permanent change.

2. Daily Habits Matter More Than You Think

Your chiropractor can get your spine back into place, but what you do between visits is just as important. Poor posture at work, sleeping in awkward positions, or spending hours slouched over a phone can quickly undo the progress made during an adjustment. The key is becoming aware of how you sit, stand, move, and sleep throughout your day. Small tweaks, like using a supportive pillow or adjusting your desk setup, can make a huge difference.

3. Muscle Imbalances Pull Things Out of Alignment

Sometimes, the reason an adjustment doesn’t hold isn’t the spine—it’s the muscles surrounding it. If some muscles are too tight and others are too weak, they create imbalances that pull your spine out of alignment again. For example, tight hip flexors or weak glute muscles can affect your low back alignment. Strengthening the right muscles and stretching the tight ones can help your adjustments last longer.

4. Stress Takes a Toll on Your Spine

Stress doesn’t just affect your mood—it can have a physical impact on your body, too. When you’re stressed, your muscles tighten, especially in your neck, shoulders, and lower back. This muscle tension can pull your spine out of alignment, making it harder for adjustments to stick. That’s why managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or even mindfulness practices can play a crucial role in maintaining your adjustments.

5. Your Body Needs Time to Heal

Chiropractic care isn’t just about pain relief—it’s about healing and restoring proper function to the nervous system. Healing takes time, especially if you’ve been dealing with chronic pain or misalignments for a long time. Regular adjustments help your body stay on the right path, but consistency is key. With time and the right care, your body will become more stable, and adjustments will start to hold longer.

6. Consistency is Key

One of the most common reasons adjustments don’t hold is that patients stop care too early. It’s understandable—you feel better, so you think you’re all set. But just because the pain is gone doesn’t mean your body is fully healed. Think of chiropractic care like going to the gym: if you stop exercising as soon as you see progress, you’ll lose the results. Staying consistent with your appointments is essential for lasting change.

How to Make Your Adjustments Last Longer

If you’re frustrated with adjustments not holding, here are a few tips to help:

• Stick to your care plan: Your chiropractor creates a personalized plan based on your needs. Following through will yield the best results.

• Do your exercises: Your chiropractor may recommend specific exercises to strengthen weak areas and maintain alignment.

• Pay attention to posture: Make small changes to your posture at work and home to support your spine.

• Stay active: Movement is medicine! Staying active keeps your muscles and joints healthy.

• Manage stress: Find ways to unwind and relax to reduce muscle tension.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care is an ongoing process that supports your body’s natural ability to heal and function at its best. If your adjustments don’t seem to hold, it doesn’t mean the care isn’t working—it means your body is still adjusting to the changes. With the right combination of adjustments, exercise, good habits, and stress management, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.