What To Expect At Your First Chiropractic Appointment

Health & Medical Blog

Chiropractic care can help relieve symptoms of various conditions, including neck and back pain. It involves performing physical manipulation techniques to adjust your spine to correct alignment problems that may be contributing to your symptoms. If you are scheduled to see a chiropractor for the first time, it's best to do some research to prepare for your appointment and know what to expect. To get your started, here's what you can typically expect when seeing a chiropractor for the first time. 

Initial Consultation

Expect the first appointment to consist of a consultation. During this time your chiropractor needs to get detailed information regarding your health and any conditions that may be affecting your problem areas. Because a wide variety of techniques and philosophies exist in chiropractic care, this is also typically where your chiropractor discusses their particular approach. Some chiropractors tailor their approach to each individual client to meet the needs of a diverse client base. Be prepared to give detailed background information about your problem, including when it started, any triggering events and what activities make it worse, or better. 

Physical Exam

After gathering enough background information, your chiropractor will conduct an exam that includes general tests such as range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength and muscle tone. Your chiropractor may also take your vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse and heart rate, as well as examine your posture. The exam is not painful and it's crucial that you let your chiropractor know which areas are tender so that gentle care is exercised. If any part of the exam causes discomfort or pain let you chiropractor know on the spot. 

Diagnostic Tests

Your chiropractor may want to perform a series of diagnostic exams to determine whether there is an underlying condition causing, or contributing to your symptoms. This decision is largely based on the information gathered during the consultation and physical exam. Typical tests include X-rays, MRIs and other laboratory tests. Ask questions to make sure you understand why the tests are being conducted. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

Following diagnostic tests and exams, your chiropractor should have enough information to confidently provide a diagnosis. Your chiropractor will explain the diagnosis and then discuss a treatment plan to help alleviate your symptoms. If you have questions, this is the time to get answers. You will want to know what the treatment will involve and what percentage of improvement you can expect to obtain from treatment, as well as how long you can expect treatment to last.

Check with care providers like Hiler Chiropractic and Vax-D Decompression Center for more information.

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28 June 2017

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