What does a new patient chiropractic visit look like?

Every chiropractor is different and will have different recommendations for your condition. Most chiropractors will perform adjustments at your first visit but some might not do this because they want to take a deeper look into the tests that they do that first day. This might be upsetting to some people because they want to be treated that same day, but wouldn’t you rather have your doctor be 100% certain before they treat you?

The first visit consists of a problem-specific chiropractic exam. Looking at the area of your body that seems to be the problem and doing some tests such as sensory, reflex, muscle strength, or other exercises or stretches to see what makes the pain better or worse. Chiropractors do this to see what part of your body is involved and what the best treatment will be for you. Some chiropractors might take X-rays in their office and others might even send you to an imaging center or hospital to get those X-rays. This is because they want a better idea of what your spine looks like inside of your body. X-rays are not done at all offices, but if you are unsure if you will be getting one or have concerns about the cost or being pregnant make sure to mention that to your chiropractor at the beginning of the visit.

After talking to the doctor about what is going on, answering any questions that they might have, and doing an exam with possible X-rays, your first visit might be done and a second visit will be scheduled to talk about recommendations. In some cases, your doctor might recommend starting treatment that day with an adjustment. Please keep in mind that one adjustment oftentimes does not fix the problem! This means that your doctor will probably recommend that you come in for another appointment to discuss the best plan of action going forward.

And that is it! Easy first visit. On future visits, your doctor will talk about what they are feeling in your body, ask how you feel that you are doing, recommend some stretches or strengthening exercises, and talk through any new concerns that you have. Live Aligned Chiropractic is more than happy to answer any other questions that you have about first visits and what that might look like for your specific problem. Please contact us at (515) 516-1718 with any questions.