How Often Should You See a Chiropractor?
If you're considering chiropractic care—or already seeing a chiropractor—you might be wondering how often you should go. The short answer is: it depends. Just like exercise or dental care, your chiropractic needs are unique to your body, lifestyle, and health goals.
In this post, we’ll break down the factors that influence how often you should visit a chiropractor, the typical schedules for different situations, and signs that it might be time for an adjustment.
Factors That Influence Chiropractic Visit Frequency
1. Your Health Condition
The most important factor in determining how often you need to see a chiropractor is your specific health issue. People with acute pain, injuries, or chronic conditions often start with more frequent visits, while those seeking general wellness care may only need occasional adjustments.
Common reasons for care:
Acute injuries (e.g., car accidents, sports injuries)
Chronic pain (e.g., back pain, neck pain, sciatica)
Posture-related issues (often from sitting at desks or long hours on your feet)
Headaches or migraines
Preventive wellness care
2. Stage of Treatment
Most chiropractic care plans happen in phases:
Initial (Relief) Phase: Frequent visits—typically 2-3 times per week—for a few weeks. This stage focuses on reducing pain and inflammation.
Corrective (Rehabilitation) Phase: Once pain improves, visits may drop to 1-2 times per week. The focus shifts to restoring mobility, posture, and long-term function.
Maintenance (Wellness) Phase: After symptoms resolve, many patients continue with care every 2-6 weeks to stay aligned and prevent future issues.
3. Your Lifestyle
Certain lifestyles call for more consistent chiropractic care. If you have a physically demanding job, sit for long hours, or are an athlete, regular chiropractic adjustments can help manage wear and tear on your spine and joints.
4. Personal Goals
Some patients see a chiropractor only when something hurts. Others go regularly to maintain spinal health and feel their best. There’s no wrong reason—it’s all about what works for you.
How to Know If You Need an Adjustment
If you’re not sure whether it’s time to book your next appointment, here are some signs your body might need a tune-up:
You’re experiencing neck or back pain
Headaches or migraines are more frequent
You notice poor posture or a slouched back
You feel stiff or less flexible
You’re recovering from an injury or surgery
You’re under a lot of stress
You sit or stand for long periods each day
Your last adjustment was over a month ago
Even if you're not in pain, regular adjustments can help your nervous system function better, reduce tension, and improve your overall well-being.
Consistency Is Key
One of the biggest misconceptions about chiropractic care is that it’s a “one and done” treatment. In reality, lasting improvements usually come from consistent care over time. Think of it like going to the gym: you don’t get fit after one workout, and you don’t stay pain-free after one adjustment.
Your chiropractor can help guide you through each phase of care and adjust your visit frequency as your body heals and adapts.
Final Thoughts
So, how often should you see a chiropractor? There's no one-size-fits-all answer—but whether you're healing from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply looking to stay proactive with your health, a personalized care plan can help you get the most out of each visit.
If you're looking for a chiropractor in Wes Des Moines, your first step is a consultation and assessment. From there, your chiropractor will recommend a schedule based on your goals and how your body responds to treatment.
Ready to feel better, move better, and live better? Contact your local chiropractor today and take the first step toward a healthier spine and a healthier you.
