Why It's Best to See a Chiropractor After a Hike

By Brandi Swieter

Outdoor activities such as hiking can lead to injury. Hikers may even experience musculoskeletal pain after a treacherous journey through an unstable environment. After returning from the adventure, it is best if people visit the chiropractor to get an adjustment that will return their bodies to normal function.

Musculoskeletal Pain

Strained muscles from hiking can lead to musculoskeletal pain that impacts the back, neck, and even the hips. Whether someone feels aches in just one or all of these areas, they should seek the help of a doctor of chiropractic right away after returning from their voyage to have them eliminated.

Injury

Hikes are hard work. Many of the paths leading to the final destination are filled with rocky areas, unseen holes dug by animals, broken branches, and worse. Hikers can easily lose their balance and fall, causing a serious injury -- which is why it's important to hike with a partner. Whether someone gets a sprain or suffers a worse fate, such as a broken bone, a chiropractor can help to assess the damage and find the appropriate measure to repair it.

Tips for Next Time

Not only will the doctor ease the pain currently felt, but he will also provide helpful tips for the next time around. Many people often head out on hikes thinking it will bring a fun adventure. They don’t realize it’s another type of sport that requires adequate preparation beforehand. Nutrition counseling and a list of stretches may be provided to help hikers understand the importance of considering their health before a task such as a long hike.

A Chiropractic Visit Before a Hike

Waiting until after a hike will help improve any pain felt because of the trip, but hikers should go beforehand, as well. A chiropractic visit before a hike will help to keep the body loose and flexible so it is more likely to handle the harsh nature of a climb up steep hilltops and down mountainsides.

Hikes and other outdoor activities can lead to injuries and pain if people aren’t careful. It is always best to see a chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic after being outdoors for an adjustment and some helpful tips for next time. The doctor will help to ease any pain felt from the journey and ensure hikers are well-prepared for their next traipse through the wilderness.

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Snellville, Ga.