Chiropractic Aftercare 101: What to Do Between Sessions
Spinal manipulation works most successfully as part of a broader self-care picture. A notable 2026 JAMA study found that combining spinal manipulation with clinician-supported self-management education led to considerably better outcomes for acute back pain than manipulation alone, reinforcing that what patients do between visits matters every bit as much as what happens during treatment. (1) At Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC in La Grande, we want every patient to feel prepared about caring for their spine before, between, and after each appointment.
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 consistently all day, not just immediately before your visit, gives your tissues a more reliable foundation for healing. Light movement before your visit, such as a short stroll, can also help ease muscle tension so your body adjusts more effectively to care.
BETWEEN SESSIONS
Most patients underestimate how much rest matters. A study of 101 healthy volunteers showed that cervical and thoracic disc hydration in fact increases with recumbency, meaning simply lying down allows the spine to restore its hydration. (3) Prioritizing a complete night's sleep and brief rest breaks during a busy day supports the work your spine is doing to heal. Pair this with any exercises your provider prescribes; the PACBACK trial's biopsychosocial self-management approach deliberately paired education with structured activity, not passive rest alone. (1)
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
Stay gently active rather than remaining still for extended periods. Follow any stretching or strengthening routine your provider recommends, since consistent, directed exercise was a core part of the better outcomes seen in recent findings. Stay hydrated and avoid heavy lifting or intense activity for the remainder of the day so your spine can settle into its improved alignment.
CONTACT Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC
Self-care between visits is essential, not optional. It is a well-rounded part of how spinal manipulation offers durable relief.
Tune into this PODCAST with Dr. Dr. Nikolaos Kalogeropoulos on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates the importance of self-care as well as chiropractic treatment with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management in managing disc problems like an extruded disc.
Make your La Grande chiropractic appointment before life gets too busy.
Your spine will thank you.
