Why Do I Feel Tired After Treatment?

This is something I hear pretty often in the clinic: “Why am I so tired after my appointment?”

The answer can vary from person to person, but let’s break down some of the most common reasons.

1. How long have you had the issue? Our brains are great at memorising patterns—whether those patterns are helpful or not. If you’ve been dealing with a chronic issue (anything lasting more than three months), your body has likely adapted to it in some way. So when we introduce a positive change through treatment, it can feel like a bit of a shock to your system. That shift can sometimes leave you feeling worn out. The good news? This usually settles as your body adapts to the new, healthier pattern.

2. Your nervous system is recalibrating. Spinal adjustments can have a powerful effect on your nervous system. Most of us live in a constant state of low-grade stress—think deadlines, poor sleep, or wrangling small kids—not exactly fleeing from tigers, but stressful all the same. This puts us in “fight or flight” mode (sympathetic dominance) more than we realise. When we adjust the spine, it helps activate the “rest and digest” part of your nervous system—the parasympathetic side. That shift can leave you feeling deeply relaxed... or just plain tired. It's your body’s way of saying, “Hey, let’s take a breather.”

3. Pain is stressful, but relief is also a bit of a shift. Chronic pain is exhausting. It’s a constant drain on your energy and focus. So when that pain eases up, your body can finally relax. And when it does? That crash of fatigue is often your system resetting, like a deep exhale you didn’t know you needed.

So what should you do about it?

 The key thing to remember is that this post-treatment fatigue is usually a sign that your body is adjusting in the right direction. It won’t last forever. Stick with the process, give yourself some grace, and stay focused on the long game.

 Your system is learning a new, better way to function—and that’s something worth being patient for.