Following your first chiropractic health appointment, it's common to feel relief from symptoms and an overall sense of lightness. However, you may be unsure of what measures to take to maintain the alignment. After receiving an adjustment, follow the guidelines below to get the most out of chiropractic manipulation. 

Do: 

Be cognizant of your posture. 

Many people struggle with maintaining their posture. While it won't be corrected after one adjustment, being cognizant of how you sit is good for your long-term chiropractic health. 

Set alarms throughout the day to check how you're carrying yourself. Your weight should be evenly distributed between the hips, with feet flat on the floor and knees properly aligned. The knees should be bent at a right angle for optimal ergonomic posture when sitting. 

Drink plenty of water. 

When getting a chiropractic adjustment, your joints, muscles, and bones get manipulated and realigned into their correct position. During this process, toxins can release into the body. 

Counteract the side effects by drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated. Doing so will help flush out the toxins and give the body the best chance of healing. Recommended hydration levels will vary based on weight, metabolism, and activity level. Still, men should generally drink about 15.5 cups of water each day, while women should have about 11.5 cups daily.

Don't: 

Perform vigorous exercise. 

Movement helps improve overall blood flow, but you need to ease back into your routine. Vigorous exercise can cause added strain on the skeletal system and counterbalance recent adjustments to chiropractic health. 

Talk to your chiropractor about how to reintroduce a workout regimen. Usually, this begins with low-impact aerobic activity and stretching. If you're an avid weightlifter, wait a few days after the appointment before picking up any dumbbells. When you do, start light and slowly progress into heavier options. 

Consume unhealthy foods. 

Eating unhealthy foods offers no nutrient value to your diet. This habit can lead to inflammation, malnutrition, and heightened pain levels. Avoid foods that are highly processed, laden with added sugar, and rich in unhealthy fats. Instead, opt for lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. These foods will help you recover and reduce your risk of further injury. 

When you're ready to enjoy the benefits of strong chiropractic health, trust the professionals at North Pole Chiropractic. This team of experienced chiropractors has served the residents of North Pole, AK, for over 20 years and specializes in adjusting postures, correcting spine misalignments, and alleviating chiropractic pain. They offer free consultations on injury treatment and pain relief. Visit their website for an extensive list of their services, and call (907) 488-1885 to schedule an appointment today.