What to Expect From Your First Chiropractic Visit
What to Expect From Your First Chiropractic Visit
It can be nerve wracking and intimidating to try something new. This is especially true when it comes to a new healthcare provider or type of treatment. Luckily, initial Chiropractic appointments usually include speaking with your doctor to give them a detailed medical history, as well as a physical exam during which time you have the opportunity to get to know your Chiropractor before any treatment is done. In this appointment, you can also start to build a treatment plan together that includes only techniques that you are totally comfortable with. After all, it is your treatment! It is essential that you are fully involved in your care from the very first visit.
Duration of Visit
Depending on the reason for the appointment (injury, chronic condition, overall health and wellness, etc) initial visits can be anywhere from 45 minutes long to an hour. The goal of this first visit is to identify the cause of the problem by getting a detailed medical history and performing a physical exam. The initial visit is also when you and your doctor will start to develop a plan of treatment and symptom management, and it is the beginning of building a good relationship between you and your doctor.
Health History
As mentioned above, your first appointment includes going over your medical history in detail. That means we will need you to provide us with all relevant information on the reason for your visit as well as other health information. This may include:
A description of the area of concern (how it feels, what things have been affected by the issues in that area, etc.)
Steps you have taken to manage the condition (previous chiropractic treatment, physiotherapy, etc.)
Past illnesses and/or injuries
Medications you are taking
Your daily routine (nutrition, exercise, work, etc.)
Maximizing treatment Benefits
The key to maximizing the effectiveness of your treatment is building a therapeutic relationship with your healthcare provider. Good communication is extremely important. That means communicating what is going on and what outcome/results you expect from your treatments. Also, it means you should ask questions! Being informed and educated will improve your understanding of both your current condition and increase the speed and effectiveness of your healing journey.
As spine, muscle, joint, and nervous system specialists, chiropractors are extensively trained to assess, diagnose, manage, and prevent musculoskeletal conditions while also addressing your individual needs and goals. Your clear communication is extremely important throughout the assessment and treatment process.
After the Appointment
After a chiropractic visit, it is normal to feel some slight discomfort or fatigue; this should resolve itself quickly. Think about going to the gym for the first time after a long break. Your body isn’t used to what it’s doing, so it will take time for it to acclimate to the new demand you are putting on it. However, if you have any concerns about this, just ask your doctor!
Backfit Clinic
At Backfit Clinic, all new patients go through a two-part assessment before beginning a treatment plan. For more information on what this looks like at Backfit, click here.
