Ask a Chiropractor: Are Adjustments Safe After Back Surgery?
Welcome back to Sioux Falls Chiropractic's Ask a Chiropractor series! We're delighted you guys are sending in your questions. Today a reader asked about getting an adjustment after back surgery. Keep reading!
"My husband and I both love going to the chiropractor and getting regular adjustments. However, he recently had surgery on his back and now we're worried an adjustment might mess something up. How long should he wait to have an adjustment, and is it OK that he has one at all?"
- McKenzie, Worthing, SD
That's a great question, McKenzie!
It is no surprise that you'd wonder whether or not adjustments are safe after back surgery - there's not a lot of information out there regarding this question, and the concept might be a little scary!
Can You Have an Adjustment?
If you want to know the truth, here it is: adjustments are perfectly safe for most people after back surgery. Studies have shown that adjustments and other techniques utilized by chiropractors post-surgery have reduced overall pain and shortened recovery time for patients.
Keep in Mind . . .
Your individual recommendations depend largely on what procedure you've had and what is involved in your treatment plan. You should consult with your chiropractor briefly by phone or consultation session regarding your concerns. He or she may contact your orthopedic surgeon to determine which technique is appropriate for your condition. Depending on how long ago your surgery was, you may not need to ask your surgeon, but definitely let your chiropractor know that you had back surgery in the past. If your chiropractor is at all concerned, they will advise you how to proceed.
Is an Adjustment Right For You?
If you and your doctors agree that adjustments may not be the right choice for you, there are still options for seeing your chiropractor that can aid in correcting your back and relieving pain. You could try acupuncture, assisted stretching, or electrical stimulation. Just talk to your chiropractor to come up with the best options for you!
Please keep in mind that chiropractors use a lot of techniques other than just the "twist and pop" method that pop-culture likes to joke about. If your doctor recommends you don't have your back "popped" after back surgery, that's fine. There are other, gentler adjustments your chiropractor can perform to relieve some of your pain.
Well, McKenzie, we hope that answers your question! If you would like to get more specific with your questions, contact us for an appointment today!
If you enjoyed this explanation and want more, don't be afraid to send us your questions! The staff here at Sioux Falls Chiropractic want to give you the best chiropractic experience possible, and that includes giving you information about your doctors and treatment options! Click the button below to ask a question, and keep an eye out on our blog for more answered questions.