What to Expect During the First Chiropractic Visit
By Lana Bandoim
Most people are nervous before and during their first visit to a new doctor. However, chiropractors do their best to help people feel comfortable and make sure they understand the treatment process. Consider the following tips, so you will know what to expect during the first chiropractic visit.
Medical History
Most chiropractic appointments begin by filling out the patient’s medical history. You may have to fill out several forms and answer questions. The chiropractor may ask about your family and personal medical history. Because of the paperwork, the first visit to The Joint may take longer than subsequent visits; later visits can usually be processed in 15 minutes or less.
Physical Exam
Chiropractors usually do a physical exam after collecting the medical history. You may have to change into a gown for the examination. Most chiropractors do several tests at this point. They may check reflexes and strength. They may also examine the posture, analyze movements and evaluate the spine. You may need diagnostic tests, and a chiropractor can make the appropriate referrals to get additional testing.
Diagnosis and Treatment
After collecting the necessary information about your problems, chiropractors will make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan. This may require multiple visits, so it is important to plan ahead. During the appointment, chiropractors can do alignments that improve spinal and joint health.
You may receive an adjustment or manual manipulation during the first visit. This may provide pain relief and other benefits. Chiropractors also focus on improving flexibility and mobility, so daily tasks are easier to complete. The goal is to restore normal function to the spine and joints.
Ongoing Support and Help
Not only are chiropractors concerned with creating the right treatment plan, they also want patients to follow the right home care instructions. A chiropractor may provide specific guidelines for exercises and stretches to do at home. They may also suggest lifestyle and ergonomic changes to improve joint and spinal health.
Exercise, diet and a healthy lifestyle are part of the chiropractor’s plan to improve a patient’s health. It is important to ask questions and make sure you know what to do at home. Chiropractors understand that it is not always easy to follow a treatment plan and can make adjustments.
The Joint Chiropractic always welcomes walk-ins, so there is no need to make an appointment or bother the receptionist about the schedule. There is also no insurance requirement, so planning your first visit is simple. The Joint stays open on evenings and weekends. The convenient locations offer personalized care plans that fit each patient’s unique needs.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Beaverton, Ore.