Key Takeaways

General Guidelines for What to Wear

When dressing for a chiropractic visit, the key is to prioritise comfort and flexibility. Since chiropractic treatments involve movements like stretching, spinal adjustments, and sometimes lying face down on a table, your clothes should allow for easy mobility.

Loose-fitting clothing is ideal. You don’t want anything too tight that might restrict your movement or feel uncomfortable while lying on the adjustment table. Avoid clothing with too many buttons, zippers, or thick belts that could get in the way.

Clothing for Your First Chiropractic Visit

On your first visit, the chiropractor will likely perform a full assessment to understand your body’s alignment and specific needs. This may involve a range of movements, such as bending and stretching, so you’ll want to wear clothes that won’t restrict your movement.

Stretchy pants like leggings or athletic trousers paired with a loose top work great. You’ll also be doing some standing and sitting postures, so choose something comfortable for both.

Best Clothing Choices for a Chiropractic Adjustment

For regular adjustments, the best clothing choices are outfits that allow for ease of movement. Consider:

• Athletic wear or yoga-style clothing: Think stretchy leggings, gym shorts, or soft sweatpants.
• Loose-fitting tops: T-shirts, breathable tops, or light sweatshirts are perfect.
• No bulky belts: If you wear jeans or pants with a belt, make sure it’s loose, or consider leaving it off during your session.

Avoid tight clothing, such as skinny jeans or pants with stiff fabric, as they can make it difficult for the chiropractor to perform adjustments effectively.

Footwear Considerations

Footwear is often overlooked, but it can affect how comfortable you feel during your chiropractic visit. Since you’ll likely be asked to lie down or move around, it’s best to wear flat, supportive shoes. Athletic shoes, flats, or sandals without heels work well.

Avoid high heels or shoes with a thick sole as they can throw off your posture and make it harder for you to feel stable during adjustments.

What to Avoid Wearing

There are a few types of clothing you should steer clear of for your chiropractic visit:

• Tight or restrictive clothing: Anything that limits your movement (e.g., skinny jeans or tight dresses).
• Bulky layers: Large sweaters or jackets that make it difficult for your chiropractor to access your spine or neck.
• Dresses or skirts: These can be impractical for lying face down or moving into different positions during the session.

Clothing for Specific Chiropractic Treatments

If you’re coming in for specific treatments, such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, or rehab exercises, you may need to adjust your outfit accordingly.

For spinal adjustments, clothing should allow easy access to your back and neck. Soft, stretchable fabrics are ideal for flexibility, while avoiding thick seams or heavy fabrics. If you’re having soft tissue therapy or rehab exercises, you may also want to choose something breathable, especially if heat therapy or any physical exercises are involved.

Do You Need to Change for Your Appointment?

Most chiropractic visits don’t require you to change clothes, so you can generally come as you are. However, if you feel more comfortable, some clinics may offer gowns or coverings to use during your session, especially for treatments that focus on specific body areas.

If you’re coming from work or another activity, you may want to bring a change of clothes to ensure you’re comfortable during the session.

Chiropractic Care for Workday Visits

If you’re coming straight from work and need to wear more formal clothing, consider bringing along something comfortable to change into. While it’s not always necessary to change, if you’re wearing a suit, skirt, or dress, these might not offer the flexibility you need for a chiropractic adjustment.

Bringing a pair of loose-fitting trousers or a stretchy top to change into can make your visit more comfortable.

Special Considerations for Women

For women, a few additional considerations can help make your chiropractic session go smoothly:

• Bras: Avoid underwire bras or bras with thick straps that might interfere with spinal adjustments.
• Leggings or yoga pants: These are ideal for allowing movement while offering coverage and comfort.
• Loose tops: Opt for tops that allow for easy access to the neck and upper back without being too tight or restrictive.

Clothing for Post-Chiropractic Adjustment

After your adjustment, you may feel more comfortable in loose, relaxed clothing, especially if the treatment involved any deep tissue work or stretching. This helps ensure that your muscles can relax post-treatment without being restricted by tight or stiff fabrics.

My Final Words

When visiting your chiropractor, comfort and mobility should always be your top priorities. Wearing loose, flexible clothing will allow you to get the most from your chiropractic adjustment and ensure that you feel comfortable throughout your session.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your chiropractic appointment, ensuring that both you and your chiropractor can focus on what matters most—your spinal health and overall wellness.

FAQs

1. Can I wear jeans to a chiropractic appointment?
   It’s best to avoid tight jeans. Opt for loose, stretchy pants instead.

2. Should I wear a bra for my chiropractic visit?
   Yes, but it’s better to avoid underwire bras as they can limit back adjustments.

3. Do I need to bring a change of clothes?
   Not usually, but if you’re coming from work in formal attire, a change into more comfortable clothes is recommended.