(Why it happens, what it means, and when to get in touch.)
You’ve just had your first adjustment. You feel lighter, maybe even more mobile. But a few hours later—or the next morning—you’re sore. Stiff. Achy.
And you’re wondering: Is this supposed to happen?
Yes—Some Soreness Can Be Totally Normal
It’s actually quite common to feel a bit sore after your first few chiropractic sessions. Especially if:
• You haven’t had treatment before
• Your body’s been out of alignment for a long time
• You’ve had years of built-up tension or compensation
But here’s the important bit: this isn’t a bad sign. In fact, it often means your body is starting to change.
Why Am I Sore After My Adjustment?
Think of it like going to the gym after a long break.
You move in new ways. Your muscles are activated differently. Your body starts adapting—and the next day, you feel it.
Chiropractic is similar.
When we realign parts of your spine that have been stuck, the body has to adjust.
Muscles that were tight to hold things together can start to relax. Others that haven’t been doing their job might now have to wake up and start supporting you properly. That change can feel strange at first.
This is especially true if your body’s been compensating around misalignments for years. Those layers of dysfunction don’t disappear overnight—and your system needs time to recalibrate.
What Kind of Soreness Is Normal?
Most people describe it as:
• A dull ache (like post-workout soreness)
• Mild stiffness in the area that was adjusted
• Slight fatigue or a feeling of heaviness
• Discomfort that lasts a few hours, up to 24–48 hours
This is your body reacting to change—not to damage.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While soreness is common, sharp pain, numbness, tingling, or new symptoms aren’t normal and should be flagged right away.
Always let your chiropractor know if:
• The pain feels worse than before
• New symptoms appear
• You’re unsure about how you’re feeling
• You’re worried at all
A good chiropractor wants to know what your body’s doing between sessions—and adjust your care accordingly.
So… What Should You Do If You’re Sore?
• Stay hydrated
• Gentle movement can help (think walking, not high-impact workouts)
• Use a warm compress if you feel stiff
• Don’t push through intense activity—give your body time to settle
• Let your chiropractor know how you felt after the visit
Final Thought
Soreness after an adjustment isn’t unusual—it’s a sign your body is changing.
And while it might not feel great in the moment, it’s often part of the process of getting your body back to how it was designed to move and function.
If you’re ever unsure, ask.
Your chiropractor should always be there to guide you, reassure you, and make sure you feel safe every step of the way.
