If you’re planning to receive chiropractic care, you might be wondering what to wear to chiropractor appointments. During chiropractic adjustments, the chiropractor uses manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system to realign joints. So, it’s important to wear clothes that allow for natural movement.
T-shirts, athletic pants, and yoga pants are usually good choices. These options provide the necessary flexibility for the chiropractor to perform manual adjustments effectively.
You want to avoid wearing clothes that restrict movement or reduce your flexibility. Also, avoid clothing that could impede the chiropractor’s access to specific areas of your body. Wearing appropriate and comfortable clothing will help the session proceed smoothly and allow for optimal musculoskeletal realignment.
Best Clothing to Wear to the Chiropractor
Chiropractic care is a very hands-on type of medical care. When you visit the chiropractor, they will likely use their hands to adjust your neck, shoulders, back, and extremities. In some cases, chiropractors use tools such as an activator to target specific joints.
Regardless of the specific techniques involved, it’s important to wear clothing that allows the chiropractor to do their job. The following are some things to keep in mind when you are picking out your outfit:
Wear Clothing That Allows the Chiropractor to Reach Your Muscles and Joints
Thick, bulky jackets and coats may hinder the chiropractor’s ability to perform adjustments correctly. If it’s cold outside, consider wearing layers so that you can take off the top layer just prior to the adjustment. Thin fabric is generally preferred for chiropractic adjustments.
Avoid Large Zippers, Belts, Jewelry, or Other Accessories
Accessories can sometimes get in the way of chiropractic adjustments. For example, if you are wearing a large belt, this may get in the way of adjustments to your lower back. A necklace could get tangled during neck adjustments. Clothing with multiple or large zippers can also be a hindrance. It’s best to leave these types of accessories at home.
You could take off your accessories just prior to the adjustment, but this increases the chances that you will accidentally forget the accessories at the office and then have to come back to get them.
Make Sure Your Clothing Allows You to Move Freely
Chiropractic adjustments often involve moving your body. It’s important to wear comfortable clothes that allow for easy movement. Stretchy and loose-fitting clothing is ideal. Skinny jeans, structured jackets, and ridged clothing can make it difficult to get into the right position during an adjustment.
Remember That You May Be Up on a Chiropractic Table
Chiropractors generally put patients on a chiropractic table when performing adjustments on them. The chiropractic table is a cushioned table that’s comfortable for the patient while allowing the chiropractor to easily access the patient’s body. It’s generally advised to avoid skirts and dresses during chiropractic appointments. Choose shorts or pants instead.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
It’s best to wear flat shoes that are comfortable and promote normal musculoskeletal alignment. High heels are not only uncomfortable, but they also force your body into an unnatural position.
Consider Tying Long Hair Back and Avoiding Large Hair Accessories
If you have long hair, you may want to tie it back in a ponytail, bun, or braid. Long hair might accidentally get pulled or snagged during chiropractic adjustments if it’s not tied back. Additionally, avoid large barrettes or other rigid hair accessories. It can be uncomfortable to lay on the chiropractic table with these items in your hair.
Wear Comfortable Undergarments
Bras with underwire or stiff bands can be uncomfortable and restrict movement during chiropractic adjustments. It’s best to wear undergarments that are flexible and comfortable.
Specific Examples of Clothing You Could Wear to Chiropractic Appointments
Wondering what to wear to your first chiropractic appointment? Here are some specific examples of clothing items that may be appropriate:
- Leggings
- Yoga pants
- Athletic pants
- T-shirts
- Thin sweatshirts
- Loose blouses/shirts
- Stretchy, loose, thin jeans
- Athletic shorts
- Running shoes
- Stretchy material
What NOT to Wear to Chiropractic Appointments
When you’re choosing your outfit for your chiropractic appointment, remember that you might be moving and stretching. For example, the chiropractor may lift your knee to stretch your lower back or place your arm across your chest to facilitate a back adjustment.
You’ll want to avoid clothing that restricts movement or makes these types of motions uncomfortable. Some examples of clothing items you should NOT wear during your adjustment include:
- Thick, bulky items
- Clothing with large buckles, buttons, or zippers (one or two small zippers is fine)
- Clothing with very stiff fabric
- Tight-fitting dresses
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- High heels
If you need to wear one of the items listed above, such as a jacket for warmth, you can simply remove the item before your adjustment. The main thing to keep in mind is that your chiropractor wants you to be as comfortable as possible while still allowing him or her to perform chiropractic adjustments correctly.
Unsure What to Wear to Chiropractic Appointments? Just Ask!
If you’re not sure what to wear to your chiropractic appointments or have questions about specific clothing items, feel free to ask for guidance when you schedule your appointment. Chiropractic care is not just about treating musculoskeletal problems, it’s about making you feel as comfortable as possible.
The staff at the chiropractic office will be familiar with the types of clothing that should and should not be worn. You should feel comfortable expressing any questions or concerns you have prior to your appointment. The staff will help you choose the most ideal clothing and address any other concerns you have.
Schedule a Chiropractic Appointment at Naples Community Injury Center
The team at Naples Community Injury Center provides chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy to individuals in Naples and the surrounding areas. We help patients with back injuries, neck injuries, bursitis, carpal tunnel, herniated disc and other spine injuries, muscle strains, sciatica, whiplash, and more.
Our physicians have over 60 years of collective experience and our chiropractic team includes doctors, chiropractic physicians, physician assistants, a neurosurgeon, and chiropractic physician assistants. We treat each patient with the individualized care and attention they deserve and strive to provide chiropractic treatment that makes a positive difference in their lives. Schedule your appointment by calling 239-631-5445 today.
