When I first go over the exam and x-rays during the report, I inform the patient about the length of time that it will take to get them out of pain and how long to correct the problem.  Under normal circumstances, it usually takes approximately two weeks to get out of pain.

During this time, ice therapy, rest and specific spinal adjustments are performed to reduce the pressure off the nerve, lessen the muscle spasms, and decrease the swelling and inflammation.  This speeds up the healing process. Correction of the problem involves a much greater amount of time, change in daily and posture habits, and a comprehensive exercise-strengthening program. 

Corrective and rehabilitation care usually requires three to six months of treatment depending on age, follow through and the extent of the injury.  The more you improve your daily lifestyle habits and posture, the faster your body will heal.  This includes changes in sleeping habits, improved diet and nutrition and stress modification management. 

The comprehensive exercise program includes daily stretching exercises, consistent strengthening workouts, and corrective spinal curve rehabilitation.  Daily stretching improves motion of the joints, reduces scar tissue formation and flexibility of the muscle and ligaments.  A strengthening program requires time, effort and dedication to improve strength, flexibility and tone of the muscles.  This involves strengthening exercises performed three to four times a week for approximately 30 minutes at a time under the doctor’s supervision.

Lastly, the corrective curve rehabilitation requires regular treatment approximately 1-2 times a day for 15 minutes total to improve the biomechanical spinal function, restore proper curves of the spine, increase the strength of the spine, and stabilize the injured area.   All of these are done in combination with the chiropractic adjustments

So, there you have it.  Which would you rather have: relief or correction?  One is very easy to obtain, but the problem can reoccur at any time and sometimes increase in pain.  The correction of the spine requires time, energy and commitment.  Why not change the oil when the light comes on or replace the battery in the smoke alarm when it runs out?  The choice is yours.