This is a question that I get asked often and there are different answers for everyone. It varies between people and lifestyles.
If you are someone who exercises regularly and keeps themselves mobile and stretches, staying well hydrated, eating healthy, low and sleeps well - well maybe just a handful of times a year.
People who have a injury history that caused scar tissue/restricted movements, and/or who work physical, laborious jobs, and/or those who often feel tight and restricted, along with other compounding factors such as high stress, poor diet, poor hydration, etc; are all in the 1-2x a month category.
These are suggested for good spinal hygiene and maintenance care. This is not for those dealing with an condition that is directly effecting them.
Acute injuries have shown to recover faster with chiropractic care. Treatments can help improve function and range of motion, decrease pain, allow for better drainage of inflammation and lymph, and stimulate the nervous system. Those conditions may require more visits in a shorter period of time. With some severe back or neck pain, it may be recommended for 2-3 visits in a single week. Commonly, a follow-up appointment a week afterwards is recommended for those in more moderate pain.
Most treatment plans suggest at least 3-5 visits within a 6-8 week period for moderate to mild conditions.
Treatments can include chiropractic adjustment (manipulation), soft tissue manipulation (percussion massage, instrument assisted tissue massage, cupping, PNF stretching and more) and rehabilitative exercises.