If you’ve decided to visit a chiropractor for the first time, there is a good chance you have questions about what to expect. Below, I discuss what you can anticipate during your first visit to a chiropractor.
During your first appointment, your chiropractor will perform a thorough examination, which will include the following:
Patient history questionnaire
- Physical assessment
- Diagnostic tests
- Treatment plan
As part of your patient history assessment, you will be asked to provide information about your symptoms and conditions. Questions may include:
- When did your pain or condition start?
- Where is the pain located?
- Does anything improve or worsen the pain?
It is also recommended that new patients bring in any previous X-ray, MRI, or lab results. Depending on your condition, your chiropractor may request additional diagnostic imaging or lab studies to better address your needs.
During your physical examination, your chiropractor will evaluate your condition and develop a working treatment plan. This includes checking vital signs like height, weight, blood pressure, pulse and respiration, as well as range of motion, muscle tone, strength, posture and movement.
The initial examination will typically conclude with a series of chiropractic services, including spinal/joint manipulation, soft tissue therapy, Active Release Technique (ART) and/or rehabilitative exercises. Your chiropractor may send you home with some additional exercises to do on your own. It is important you perform these exercises in order to achieve optimal results and regain full function. Depending on your diagnosis, you should expect to come back for a follow-up appointment within 1-2 weeks of your initial exam.
To learn more about chiropractic care at Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.
Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic provides convenient chiropractic care for patients in Council Bluffs, Oakland, Avoca and the surrounding areas. We accept most major insurance plans, including auto accident and workers’ compensation. We specialize in chiropractic manipulation, functional medicine, soft tissue therapy, mobilization and nutritional counseling. From pregnant mothers to weekend warriors and even star athletes, we provide a personalized approach to meet each patient’s unique needs.