What Can I Expect During My First Visit to a Chiropractor?

When you come in you can expect to complete a full medical history questionnaire and "new patient" paperwork. You will then consult with the doctor. This consultation is your opportunity to express your health concerns and expectations, and to ask any questions you may have pertaining to the matter. It is also for the Chiropractor to express his/her role in your health care and discuss your health prognosis. A physical exam will be performed which may include orthopedic testing, reflex assessments, muscle testing, a scan of your nervous system (seen in photos to the left), and a specific Chiropractic evaluation. In some cases x-rays may be necessary to determine an exact diagnosis. X-rays can usually be done in our office. The Doctor will go over the results of the exam and x-rays with you in a Report of Findings. The Doctor will then perform a chiropractic adjustment at the end of the Report. Adjustments shouldn't be painful, although you may feel some discomfort until the pressure in the joint is relieved. Depending on your condition, the Doctor will schedule a series of visits for care.

After your first adjustment we suggest using ICE to help decrease any pain and/or inflammation that you may be experiencing. It is also possible that you may get worse before you get better. Remember...we are moving joints that are irritated and have not had correct motion in them for quite some time. Please DO NOT get discouraged if you do not get better right away. YOU only heal as fast as YOUR body will let you.