What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Chiropractor

Many patients who seek care at a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) office do not know what to expect. You’ll meet the doctor after filling out some brief paperwork describing your health history, current complaint and overall health. The doctor will start by discussing the patient’s history and then performing a physical examination.

The physical examination will include neurologic, orthopedic and chiropractic specific analysis to develop a working diagnosis. Imaging or lab tests (such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans or blood work) may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other conditions that could be contributing to your overall health.

With the patient history, examination and diagnostic studies the doctor will be able to reach a diagnosis for your condition. If the doctor determines that your condition would benefit from co-management with another healthcare professional, he or she will make the appropriate referral.

The doctor will explain your condition and discuss what chiropractic procedures are most appropriate to treat and/or manage your condition. As a part of this process, the doctor will explain how the procedures are performed and review the risks and benefits of all procedures.

Based upon the extent and severity of your condition chiropractic treatments may require multiple visits. Some patients experience almost immediate relief, while others discover the healing process can take longer. Every patient recovers at their own pace. Some factors which can affect the healing process include your age, overall health condition, muscle tone, diet and even your attitude.

By consulting with a Doctor of Chiropractic you will be joining millions who have enjoyed better health without drugs or surgery.