If back surgery (such as a spinal fusion or discectomy) is in your future, you may wonder if you can use a chiropractor after your operation. It's not uncommon for individuals to continue to experience some level of back pain or discomfort after their operation. Here's what you need to know about using a chiropractor after back surgery. 

1. Chiropractor Care is Usually Safe After Back Surgery

For most patients, it's safe to resume chiropractic care after back surgery. You'll want to confirm that your surgeon approves of your chiropractor visits, and it's important to wait until you've healed from your procedure.

The adjustments that your chiropractor makes during your sessions can strain a back that's not completely healed. Twisting that's associated with some chiropractic adjustments can potentially break or damage a graft used during back surgery. 

Remember, your spine is delicate and sensitive to injury until it's completely healed. Make sure to complete any recommended physical therapy sessions to ensure that the back muscles have recovered their strength and mobility. You may need to wait anywhere from six months to a year before resuming your chiropractic care. 

2. Regular Chiropractic Care Can Alleviate Future Back Pain

Though your surgery will hopefully fix the issue causing your current chronic back pain, it's possible for future back pain to occur when your spine is out of alignment or if another spinal issue occurs. When your spine is properly aligned, this can reduce tension on the surrounding muscles and lower the frequency that your bones rub against one another. 

Poor posture is a common cause of back pain. Many patients find that regular chiropractic sessions improve their posture so that they don't experience aches and pains associated with hunching the back. 

3. It's Essential to Consult with Your Doctor Before Resuming Chiropractic Services

Before you schedule an appointment with your chiropractor, it's important that you consult with your doctor. They can make sure that your back is ready to be adjusted, and if isn't, suggest therapies or treatments to strengthen it. 

It's always better to coordinate your care with all your medical providers. Informing your doctor about your plans allows them to include your chiropractic sessions in your overall care plan.

If you're searching for a chiropractor, your doctor can typically provide a recommendation to a qualified provider. Or, your doctor may suggest some treatments that you can use in conjunction with your chiropractor care, such as massage or the use of electric muscle stimulation. 

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