“How often should I get an adjustment?”

Dr. Rachel Sharp, D.C.
Jan 20, 2017
2 min read

One of the most common questions patients ask is: “How often should I get adjusted?” The honest answer is — it depends. Chiropractic care isn’t one-size-fits-all. The frequency of care depends on your age, lifestyle, activity level, posture, and even your health history.

Chiropractic adjustments are designed to restore proper motion and alignment in the spine and joints. When movement is restricted, it can lead to pain, stiffness, muscle imbalance, and eventually degeneration if left untreated. Just like exercise or dental care, regular check-ins with your chiropractor can help prevent small issues from becoming big problems.

General Wellness Guidelines by Age

While individual recommendations vary, here are some general wellness guidelines:

Ages 0–5 years: Quarterly (every 3 months)

Infants and toddlers go through rapid growth and development. Studies show that as many as 80% of newborns have spinal misalignments following the birth process [1]. Early care helps ensure children hit milestones, recover from falls, and grow in alignment.

Ages 5–18 years: Quarterly (every 3 months)

Kids spend hours sitting at desks or looking down at devices, both of which contribute to poor posture. Others are highly active in sports and at risk of injury. Regular adjustments can support healthy growth and address issues before they become chronic.

Ages 18 and older: Monthly to Quarterly

Adults often face postural strain from desk jobs, physical stress from active work, or both. Young parents carry and lift children, while older adults face decreased activity levels and chronic health conditions that affect mobility. Regular chiropractic visits help maintain spinal function, reduce pain, and support long-term health.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Pain

Pain is often the last signal the body gives that something is wrong. By the time pain shows up, there may already be muscle imbalances, restricted motion, or early joint degeneration. Regular chiropractic care helps address these issues before they become harder — and more expensive — to correct.

Health & Money Saving Tip

See your chiropractor at the first sign of discomfort. Waiting allows the body to adapt, masking pain while underlying dysfunction continues. This can lead to arthritis, degeneration, and more complicated treatment plans.
Preventative care is cost-effective. Bigger problems = longer treatment plans = higher costs.

The Takeaway

Every body is different, but consistent chiropractic care helps keep the spine healthy and functioning at its best. Think of adjustments as part of your wellness routine, just like exercise and healthy eating. By being proactive rather than reactive, you protect your health now and for the future.