Your First Chiropractic Visit
If you’ve never visited a chiropractor before, it’s natural to have questions about what will happen.
Your first appointment gives us time to understand your concerns, perform an appropriate examination and explain what may be causing your symptoms. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss your treatment options.
A first chiropractic visit generally takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the condition.
Before Your Appointment
Please complete the applicable patient forms before your visit, if possible. The forms provide information about your current symptoms, health history, medications, previous injuries and treatments.
Comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely is recommended.
1. Discussing Your Health History
Your chiropractor will begin by asking about:
- What is bothering you
- When and how the symptoms started
- Activities that improve or aggravate the problem
- Previous injuries or similar episodes
- Your medical history and current medications
- Previous treatment or diagnostic imaging
- How the problem is affecting your work, sleep, exercise and daily life
- What you would like to get back to doing
This conversation helps determine what should be examined and whether chiropractic assessment is appropriate.
2. Physical Examination
With your consent, your chiropractor will perform an examination based on your symptoms and health history.
The examination may include:
- Posture and movement assessment
- Range-of-motion testing
- Orthopaedic or neurological tests
- Muscle and joint assessment
- Reflex, strength or sensation testing
- Palpation of the affected area
- Not every patient requires every test. The examination is adapted to your condition, and you should provide feedback if any movement or test causes discomfort.
X-rays are not routinely required. If imaging or another medical assessment may be helpful, your chiropractor will explain why and discuss the next step with you.
3. Explanation of Findings
After the examination, your chiropractor will explain the findings in plain language and answer your questions.
This discussion may include:
- The likely diagnosis or source of your symptoms
- Whether chiropractic care may be appropriate
- Available treatment options
- The expected frequency and duration of care
- Exercises or activity modifications
- Whether another healthcare provider or further testing is recommended
You are never obligated to begin treatment or commit to a treatment plan.
Will I Be Treated During My First Visit?
Treatment may be provided during your first appointment when it is appropriate and you feel comfortable proceeding.
Treatment can include chiropractic adjustments, joint mobilization, soft-tissue techniques, stretching or exercise recommendations. Your chiropractor will explain the proposed treatment, discuss possible benefits and risks, and obtain your consent before beginning.
Some adjustments create a popping or cracking sound as pressure changes within the joint. The sound is not required for the treatment to be effective.
After Your Appointment
Responses to treatment vary. Some patients feel improvement quickly, while others require time and several visits. Mild temporary soreness or fatigue can occur after treatment.
If you have questions or experience an unexpected reaction after your appointment, contact the clinic.
Ready to Book Your First Visit?
No referral is generally required to see a chiropractor. Appointments are available Monday through Saturday.
