06/15/2026
The first 36 hours after an acute injury matter.
If you twist, strain, fall, lift wrong, or aggravate an old injury and can't get into the office the same day, this is the general protocol we often review over the phone:
1. Stop the activity
Don't "test it" over and over. Give the tissue a chance to calm down.
2. Ice first
For a fresh injury, use ice for about 15 minutes at a time. Heat can increase circulation and may worsen swelling in the early inflammatory stage.
3. Protect the area
Avoid heavy lifting, deep stretching, aggressive massage, or forcing movement through pain.
4. Gentle movement only
Light, pain-free movement is usually better than total immobility, but don't push through sharp pain.
5. Watch for red flags
Severe pain, visible deformity, numbness, weakness, head injury, loss of bladder/bowel control, chest pain, or inability to bear weight should be evaluated urgently.
6. Call the office
We can help you decide whether you should come in, monitor symptoms, or seek urgent evaluation.
Lauterbach Chiropractic Acupuncture Massage & Laser Center
Serving Palmyra / Lake Monticello / Fluvanna
35 Years in Practice • 75 Year Family Tradition
This post is general education and is not a diagnosis or replacement for medical care.
📍202 Turkeysag Trail #5, Palmyra, VA 22963, United States
📞 434-591-0900
🌐 DrLauterbach.com
