What can I expect on my first visit?
The initial consultation at our office includes a history, physical exam, and treatment and generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes. When you arrive at the office you will be given paperwork to fill out which will ask questions regarding your:
- personal contact information
- reason for seeking chiropractic care
- personal medical history including past illnesses, surgeries and hospitalizations
- list of current medications
You will also be asked to provide your personal insurance information along with an insurance claim form (if applicable) if you would like us to direct bill for your care.
Once you have filled out your paperwork, the chiropractor will show you into her office where a thorough history will be taken of your medical condition and you may be asked to clarify any information present on the initial forms. If you have brought along a copy of any x-ray or medical test results the chiropractor may also review these at this time.
The first step of the chiropractic physical examination will be a screening of your posture to observe any obvious misalignments. You will be asked to stand while the chiropractor observes your posture and notes any areas which are not symmetrical. Following the posture exam the chiropractor will also perform some of the following tests:
- An analysis of your movement - she will observe how you walk, turn or bend, as well as how your body moves in the affected area.
- A hands-on evaluation of how well your spine moves, identifying restrictions and areas of improper motion.
- A test of your reflexes, strength and sensations
- A check of your blood pressure, pulse and breathing
You may also be referred to your local medical centre at this time for x-rays if the chiropractor finds them necessary. You may be asked to change into a gown for some of these tests depending on the region affected.
These tests will allow the chiropractor to get a better picture of your overall health, to make a diagnosis, and to come up with an appropriate treatment plan. The chiropractor will then go over the treatment and diagnosis with you and you will be asked to review and sign an informed consent form. You will have a chance at this time to ask any questions that you may have before signing the consent form or proceeding with treatment. If the chiropractor diagnoses a condition more appropriately treated by another healthcare professional, she will make a referral.
Your schedule of care may depend partially on your personal expectations as well. For some people chiropractic treatment is like a regular tune-up, to help deal with the wear and tear of life. For others, it's simply an effective treatment when pain or discomfort strikes. You can discuss with the chiropractic which option works best for you.
