When you’re new to chiropractic care, it’s natural to wonder: Can an adjustment actually make me feel worse before I feel better? At first glance, it might sound concerning—but the answer is more nuanced and far less alarming than it seems.
At Herres Chiropractic, we’ve heard this question from countless first-time patients in Pasco, WA. The good news? Most people feel relief, mobility, and clarity after their first session. For others, some mild post-adjustment effects may occur—but they are typically short-lived, manageable, and a sign that your body is rebalancing.
In this article, we’ll explain what really happens after an adjustment, what temporary symptoms you might notice, and how Dr. Matt Herres ensures every visit is tailored for safe, comfortable, and effective care.
Understanding What “Feeling Sick” Really Means After an Adjustment
It’s important to start by clarifying what “sick” means in this context. Most patients who report feeling “off” after an adjustment are not experiencing an illness, but rather a temporary reaction from their body adapting to spinal changes.
Common post-adjustment reactions may include:
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Mild fatigue
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Muscle soreness (like after a workout)
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Headache
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Slight nausea or dizziness
These effects typically resolve within 24–48 hours and are linked to what chiropractors often refer to as the “healing response.” Your nervous system and musculoskeletal structure are suddenly realigned, and that can spark a biological reset—especially if your body has been compensating for poor posture or chronic tension.
This is especially true if it’s your first adjustment or your condition has gone untreated for a long time.
Why Does This Happen? The Science Behind the Shift
Dr. Herres explains it like this: when your spine is misaligned, your muscles, joints, and nerves operate in a constant state of compensation. A proper adjustment corrects these imbalances—but just like stretching after being stiff for weeks, it can temporarily stir up physical responses.
One reason some patients feel temporarily “off” is due to circulatory changes. Spinal adjustments can help release built-up pressure and tension, which may lead to increased blood flow and movement of metabolic waste—substances like lactic acid and histamines. These aren’t harmful toxins, but their redistribution can trigger mild symptoms in some individuals.
Additionally, the nervous system resets after an adjustment. This can affect how your body processes signals such as pain or stress, leading to short-term discomfort before long-term improvement kicks in.
How Common Are These Reactions?
Research suggests that mild reactions like soreness or fatigue occur in about 23–61% of chiropractic patients, especially after their first few visits. These are not considered complications—they’re expected, manageable, and a sign that your body is shifting toward better alignment and function.
It’s extremely rare for anyone to experience serious side effects after a chiropractic adjustment, especially when working with a trained and licensed professional like Dr. Herres.
What You Can Expect at Your First Visit with Dr. Matt Herres
At Herres Chiropractic, your health and comfort come first. Dr. Herres performs a thorough evaluation before any adjustment. This includes:
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A complete health history review
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Orthopedic and neurological testing
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Postural analysis
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Range of motion and spinal assessment
He’ll then develop a customized treatment plan designed for your unique condition, comfort level, and lifestyle. If you’re new to chiropractic care or have specific health concerns, Dr. Herres may begin with gentle mobilizations or soft-tissue techniques to minimize any post-care sensitivity.
“We always go at the patient’s pace,” says Dr. Herres. “The goal is to guide your body into healing—not to overwhelm it. And if any minor effects show up, we help you manage them with ease.”
How to Support Your Body After an Adjustment
If you do experience any temporary symptoms after your first few visits, there are simple and effective ways to help your body adjust smoothly.
Here’s what Dr. Herres recommends:
1. Stay Hydrated
Water helps your body flush out metabolic byproducts that may move through your system more rapidly after an adjustment. Aim for at least 8–10 glasses of water over the next day.
2. Light Movement
Gentle walks or stretches can encourage circulation and reduce stiffness. Avoid intense workouts immediately after your first adjustment—your body needs time to adapt.
3. Rest if You Need It
If you feel fatigued or sleepy post-adjustment, listen to your body. A short nap or a good night’s rest can support recovery and integration.
4. Ice (If Needed)
For localized soreness, apply an ice pack to the area for 15–20 minutes. Avoid heat, which may increase inflammation in the short term.
✅ Dr. Herres always provides tailored aftercare advice based on your condition and response. Most patients feel increasingly better with each visit.
When to Be Concerned (Very Rarely)
In most cases, post-adjustment effects are mild and self-resolving. However, if you experience any of the following—which are very rare—it’s best to contact your chiropractor:
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Persistent or worsening pain
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Dizziness that doesn’t go away
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Numbness or tingling that increases over time
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Symptoms not improving after 48–72 hours
These outcomes are uncommon, especially under the care of an experienced provider like Dr. Matt Herres. At Herres Chiropractic, your progress is closely monitored, and adjustments are always performed with safety and precision in mind.
Long-Term Benefits Outweigh Temporary Effects
The short-term symptoms some patients feel after an adjustment are not signs that chiropractic care is harmful—quite the opposite. They’re usually signs that your body is finally beginning to reset and function more optimally.
Long-Term Benefits of Chiropractic Care Include:
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Improved posture and spinal alignment
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Reduced chronic pain and tension
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Better sleep quality
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Increased range of motion and flexibility
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Enhanced energy and mental clarity
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Less reliance on pain medications
At Herres Chiropractic, our mission is to help you heal naturally—without masking symptoms. Dr. Herres focuses on getting to the root of your discomfort and guiding you through a recovery plan that brings real, lasting relief.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re considering chiropractic care but feel hesitant about the adjustment process, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way.
Visit our office at 7007 Burden Blvd. Ste. 104, Pasco WA 99301
Call 509-543-1123
Book your consultation here
Remember: Feeling a little sore or tired after your first few chiropractic visits is common—and often a sign of progress. Dr. Herres is committed to making your care experience not only safe, but highly effective and personalized to your health goals.
